Skip Navigation

Sensible Drinking

Like some of the things we enjoy most in life, alcohol is best consumed in moderation. So while there’s nothing wrong with an occasional drink, it’s best to stick within the recommended limits and stay away from binge drinking.

On this page you’ll find:

If you’re worried about your own, or someone else’s drinking and would like some help see our section on Alcohol Abuse.

How many units are you drinking?

Most of us know that we should watch how much alcohol we consume – but do you know how many units are in your regular tipple? Read on and you could be in for a surprise!

You’re advised not to drink:

  • Men =  not more than 3 - 4 units per day
  • Women = 2 - 3 units per day

As you’ll see below, it's not as simple as one drink=one unit; it's the drink’s strength and size that determines how many units it has. It’s also worth considering the calories too:

  • 1 pint of lager = 2-3 units. 1 can of lager = 221 calories)
  • 1 glass of white wine = 2-2.5 units (115 calories)
  • A 25ml shot of vodka = 1 unit (55 calories)

Think about that next time you’re at the bar. Or better still; ditch the drink and encourage your friends to take a leisure class or pick up a sport. It’ll give you something new to talk about!

If you fancy getting out of the pub, check our Stay Active and Learning sections for ideas.

For more on units visit Drink Aware to calculate your unit intake

Online information & advice

Direct gov

Information on how long alcohol stays in your bloodstream, health risks and anti-social behaviour.

Drink Aware

Lets you calculate your units but also shows the effects of alcohol, the law and gives handy hints and tips.

Alcohol and Pregnancy

If you’re a mum-to-be or you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to stay clear of alcohol. The Department of Health warns of the following risks of drinking when pregnant:

  • If you drink more than 15 units a week there’s an increased risk of having a baby with a low birth weight.
  • If you drink more than 20 units a week there’s an increased risk of having a baby with some damage to the brain causing impaired intellect.
  • Drinking very heavily risks having a baby with 'Fetal Alcohol Syndrome'. Babies with this syndrome have brain damage, a low birth weight, and facial malformations.

Check our information for Parents for more advice on pregnancy and childbirth.

Both of these sites also offer excellent guidance on alcohol and pregnancy sites offer excellent all-round information.

Young People and Alcohol

How do you feel about drinking? What do you do when one of your mates has had too much? Are you worried about binge drinking?

Get the facts from the websites below:

The Site

The Site has tons of information, not just on alcohol, but on pretty much any subject you can think of. In their alcohol section you’ll find out why hangovers make you feel bad, why you crave chips after a night out and how to look after a friend that’s had a little too much.

Talk to Frank

Arm yourself with info on alcohol. If you worried about your drinking or you just need more information call their helpline on 0800 77 66 00 or textphone 0800 917 8765

Young Scot

Aimed at 12-26 year olds, this site has good information regarding alcohol, just perform a search on the home page.


Elsewhere on My Health