Excessive alcohol consumption will increase the risk of stroke (both ischaemic and haemorrhagic). Excessive drinking over time may lead to high blood pressure which in itself as a risk factor for stroke.
Paradoxically, there is some evidence to suggest that small quantities of alcohol can be beneficial. However, the evidence is not sufficiently robust to encourage non-drinkers to start taking alcohol.
It is estimated that 25% of men and 16% of women drink too much and are in danger of putting their health at risk.
Sensible drinking recommendations for adults are
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No more than 3 units a day for men No more than 2 units a day for women With two or more alcohol-free days per week. You should not “save-up” your units and have them all on the same evening.
1 unit is equal to
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The strength of an alcoholic drink is indicated by the percentage of alcohol by volume. 1 unit is 8 grams of pure alcohol – regardless of the amount of liquid it’s contained in.
Remember that many popular drinks available nowadays are considerably different to the “once-standard” drinks. For example, stronger lagers and pilsners are often around 5% and 6% which is much stronger than traditional ales and beers, and measure at 3 units per pint. Wines average around 12 – 13% alcohol, so a typical glass in a pub would equal about 2 units.
The limits for women are less than men because men have more body fluid than women – even in equal sized men and women.
Tips for reducing your alcohol
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Take a smaller drink – a glass instead of a pint, a single instead of a double Put your glass down between sips Go out later – so you start drinking later Make every 2nd drink a non-alcoholic one Choose drinks with less alcohol. Avoid the “extra-strong” variety. Always eat before and while you drink Have at least 2 alcohol-free days per week
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