CORONA drinking

A survey conducted this year by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) found 70 per cent of Australians had been drinking more than usual since the COVID-19 outbreak. The survey also identified that people were drinking more often and starting earlier in the day.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines for safe alcohol consumption recommend healthy adults limit their intake to no more than two standard drinks per day and have at least two alcohol-free days per week.

When enjoyed in moderation, alcohol can be included safely as part of a healthy lifestyle for most people. However, drinking in excess of the NHMRC guidelines can increase your risk of numerous health conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, pancreatitis, heart disease, liver disease and some cancers. Plus, it can also make your BGLs harder to manage.