Cutting down on alcohol: why do it and how to take a step closer to a healthier lifestyle

If you’re concerned about how much alcohol you currently drink and want to make some positive changes to your lifestyle, we are here to support you. Cutting down or stopping drinking altogether can help you to lead a happy, healthier and much safer lifestyle.

How much is a safe amount to drink?

It’s important to note that there is no entirely safe way of consuming alcohol, but the NHS does offer advice on how you can stay in control of your drinking.

Both men and women are advised not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis, this is the equivalent to 6 average-strength beer or 10 small glasses of lower-strength wine. If you currently regularly drinking as much as 14 units a week, it should be spread across 3 or more days.

You can find more information on alcohol units on the NHS website.

Why should I cut down on alcohol?

If you are regularly drinking alcohol in a way that’s harmful to your health (substance use), it can lead to a range of health conditions including chronic liver disease, mental and behavioural disorders and cancer.

Drinking too much can also have a negative impact on various aspects of your social life:

Finances

Purchasing alcohol regularly can have a large impact on your finances. The average drinker in the UK spends £62,899 on alcohol in a lifetime.

Work performance

Drinking can impact your concentration and productivity at work.

Relationships

If you are a frequent drinker, your habits and behaviours may have an effect on your relationship with family and friends.

How to cut down on drinking alcohol?

Keep track

It’s a good idea to know how much you’re drinking. Try writing it down or using an app to keep track. It can be a real eye-opener!

Set limits

Decide how many drinks you want to have before you start. This can help you stick to your plan. You could also try and assign a couple of alcohol-free days each week.

Try alternatives

There are so many tasty non-alcoholic drinks out there! Swap out some of your alcoholic drinks for a mocktail, soft drink or fruit juice. 

Talk about it

If you’re trying to cut down and finding it tough, talk to someone you trust. They might have some ideas or just be there to support you.

Remember your why

Keep in mind why you want to cut down. Maybe it’s to feel better, sleep better, or just take care of yourself. Whatever your reason, remind yourself of it when you need a little extra motivation.

Live Well Leicester can help

If you want to cut down on alcohol, our team of friendly advisors can help. It’s simple! Call us on 0116 454 4000 today or visit our alcohol page for more information.