Norfolk Public health encourages people to think about their drinking habits

As we head towards the festive season, Norfolk Public Health is encouraging people to reflect on their drinking habits. Understanding what a unit of alcohol looks like and knowing how to avoid harm can help people make healthier and safer choices.   

Health professionals recommend a limit of 14 units of alcohol per week. In Norfolk, although there's an overall decrease in the average amount people drink, men over 40 remain more likely to drink above this limit.   

For example, a single pint of beer is generally 2 units and a medium glass of standard wine (175ml) is just over 2 units, though these can vary with the strength of the drink.   

Regularly drinking more than 14 units a week can seriously affect people's health. Drinking less brings longer-term benefits, such as reducing the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, stroke, liver damage and certain types of cancer.   

Cllr Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing said: "With the festive season rapidly approaching, many of us will be getting into party mode - enjoying drinks as we celebrate with friends, family and colleagues. It's great fun but the units can quickly add up.   

"There is no completely safe level of drinking but keeping your weekly intake to under 14 units will lower your risk of alcohol related health issues and bring benefits such as better sleep and weight control, more energy and improved immunity.   

"If you're concerned about your drinking or want to get a better understanding of what 14 units looks like, head to our online tool, Ready to Change. You'll find step by step guidance to help you monitor your drinking and develop habits for a healthier lifestyle."   

For those who are drinking most days, or regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week, Norfolk County Council commissions DrinkCoach to help residents with managing their drinking.  This free service is a great way to discuss your drinking and receive confidential expert guidance from a specialist via up to six online coaching sessions. To find out if you are eligible for the service, take the alcohol quiz.   

Information and support to make lifestyle changes to improve health and wellbeing is available at www.norfolk.gov.uk/readytochange.