As the festive season gets into full gear, many people find themselves indulging in alcoholic beverages to embrace the holiday cheer. Interestingly, the threshold for being considered a ‘heavy drinker’ might be lower than expected.
When selecting the ideal drink, whether it’s a fruity cocktail or a traditional beer, individuals often gauge their consumption by the number of drinks, counting by servings such as a bottle, can, or glass.
However, this approach can be misleading, as Dr. Sarah Wakeman, a professor at Harvard Medical School, highlighted during her conversation on The Diary of a CEO podcast.
In her discussion with host Steven Bartlett, she noted: “Part of the challenge is what we think of as ‘one drink.’ Much like when you learn to read the serving size on food – a serving of ice cream is like half a scoop. It’s not a giant sundae. The same is true of alcohol.
In the UK, the low-risk drinking limits are based on units of alcohol, with one unit equating to 8g of alcohol. To remain in the low-risk category, it’s important to consume less than 14 units per week.”
Using a glass of wine Bartlett held as an example, she further explained: “That glass of wine has multiple units of alcohol, even though we think of it as a single drink.”
Bartlett seemed taken aback by this revelation, commenting: “So if I had a glass of wine a day, I’d be over that limit then.”
Dr. Wakeman clarified: “You’d be right at that limit. The issue is most people don’t stop at one glass. Drinking two glasses one day, one the next, and three at a social event can quickly exceed that limit.”
While the discussion focused initially on low-risk alcohol consumption, Steven explored the ease with which one might enter the more concerning ‘heavy-drinking’ category.
He speculated: “So if I’m a heavy drinker, consuming two glasses of wine daily, would that put me in the heavy drinking category?”
Dr. Wakeman confirmed, noting: “Which would surprise most people right? For many people that’s very normal.”
The revelation seemed to shock Bartlett, who was struck by how ‘normal’ and easy it was to be considered a heavy drinker.
He reflected: “It is very normal. Younger people might not realize this, as their drinking habits differ, but the older generation often has two glasses of wine daily. After work, on weekends, with meals, it’s quite normal. That would categorize me as a heavy drinker.”
In the United States, assessing alcohol consumption differs slightly, focusing on the count of ‘standard’ drinks rather than alcohol units.
The CDC defines heavy drinking as eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more for men.
Here are the ‘standard’ drink sizes, each containing the same amount of pure alcohol:
· 12 ounces (5% ABV beer)
· 8 ounces (7% ABV malt liquor)
· 5 ounces (12% ABV wine)
· 1.5 ounces (40% ABV distilled spirits, 80 proof)
Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to chronic diseases and other serious health issues, including:
· Cancer
· Heart and liver disease, and stroke.
· Alcohol use disorder, affecting both physical and mental health.
· Weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to illness.
· Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
· Memory issues, including dementia.
· Learning difficulties and problems at school or work.
· Relationship challenges with family and friends.
If you’ve been affected by addiction and need someone to talk to, you can reach out to American Addiction Centers at (888) 324-0595, available 24/7, or contact them through their website.