DRINKING TOO MUCH?

Cut down on boozing to improve your health It’s easier than you think to reduce your alcohol intake. Use these tips from Dr Samantha Miller**…

✢ TRACK WHAT YOU DRINK Keep a diary over several weeks to see if you’re regularly drinking more than the recommended maximum of 14 units of alcohol per week. If you are, it’s time to consider reducing your intake.

✢ SET YOURSELF BOUNDARIES Such as having alcohol-free days or weekends. Identify triggers that prompt you to drink and consider alternatives. So, if you always have a glass of wine with dinner, consider replacing it with a glass of non-alcoholic fruit juice.

✢ LEARN ABOUT THE RISKS Better your understanding of the negative effects of excess alcohol. Drinking is associated with a greater risk of high blood pressure, liver disease and cancer.

✢ START CONVERSATIONS Discuss cutting down with family and friends. Telling those around you avoids being offered alcohol, which may lead to you drinking more than you intended.