Despite the endless headlines, and what we see ourselves on the street at weekends, most adults in Britain, if they choose to drink, go out to enjoy a drink rather than to get drunk. Even amongst under 25 year olds, over 70% go out to meet friends, partners and to have a good time without 'bingeing'.
The average woman in the UK (in 2009) drinks 9 units a week and the average consumption amongst men is 18 units, although some drink less and some drink more of course.
These tips will help you stay cool and in control:
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Units and mixing
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The amount of alcohol in drinks can be misleading, so be aware of how many units are in your drink. Many drinks now carry unit icons on the packaging or back labels.
For example, a 175ml glass of wine at 12% Alcohol will contain 2 units, the same as a double vodka or whisky or a pint of traditional beer at 3.5%. However, many premium beers will be 4.5 % or above, increasing your intake by a unit a pint. Home pours of spirits are usually more generous than intended too.
Also watch out for ‘top ups’ at friends – you can kid yourself that you’re still on the same drink – empty your glass first before having another drink, so you can keep more of a tally on your intake. For the unit content of the most popular drinks, click here
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Arrange how you’re going to get home before you go out – make sure you’ve got enough spare cash for a cab, take it turns for one of you not to drink and to be the driver for the evening or make sure you know the time of the last bus or tube home.
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Pace yourself
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If you are going to be drinking over several hours – either out on the town or at friends, you could consume much more than you realise. A great way to stay on top is to alternate soft drinks or water with each alcoholic drink. Alcohol is dehydrating, so water or long refreshing pacers make a big difference - especially if you’re dancing and using energy!
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Getting home
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Recent polls show that over 30% of us have taken risks or got into an uncomfortable situation by either going home after a night out on our own or with a stranger. Don’t risk it!… never leave your drink unattended in bars and clubs or accept drinks from complete strangers.
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Look out for each other
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A quick bite
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It’s very tempting, especially if you’re going out straight from the office, not to eat. Having a quick sandwich or bowl of cereal before you go out will line your stomach and alcohol will not be absorbed so quickly into the blood stream.
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Hosting a Party at Home
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- Serve food - preferably not salty snacks that make you drink more!
- If you’re serving home made cocktails or punch, don't make them too strong - and have shot measures if guests are mixing their own.
- If a few guests are getting worse for wear, encourage them to have a soft drink or to sit down and eat something.
- Keep a special eye out for young people and make sure they're OK
- Make sure everyone can get home safely, with a sober driver, reliable public transport, or a licensed cab , Alternatively offer them a bed for the night.
- Last but not least - don't drink too much yourself!
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Top Tips
