Studies have shown that for women, sticking to 3 or fewer drinks in a session and 7 or fewer drinks per week is likely to be lower risk. For men, it’s 4 or fewer drinks in a session and 14 or fewer drinks per week. Studies show that for the average person, drinking above those levels is where we start seeing health problems over time that come from drinking.
It’s also important to remember that for some people no amount of alcohol is likely to be low risk. Maybe you have a strong family history of alcohol use disorder, have a health condition that could be worsened by alcohol, or take a medication that might react with alcohol. Knowing your own body and your personal risk is important in deciding what level of intake might be acceptable for you.
What’s behind the popularity of more mindful drinking — trends like sober curious and the rise of more nonalcoholic options?
I love seeing these options out there. I think it shows that people are becoming more aware of the risks of alcohol intake but still looking to enjoy some of the things that go along with alcoholic beverages — taste, texture, and so on. I also think it’s really cool to see breweries and distilleries thinking about what makes their product special other than its ability to intoxicate.
For some people though, nonalcoholic beverages might bring back the sights, tastes, and feelings of drinking alcohol and bring on cravings for the alcoholic version.
It’s also important to know that nonalcoholic beers may contain a small amount of alcohol. The amount isn’t enough to cause intoxication, but if someone is being tested for alcohol intake regularly or for a DUI, or is taking a medication to prevent any alcohol intake, that amount of alcohol could still cause problems.
How is your perception of self connected to drinking?
We need to realize that companies that make alcohol have spent a massive amount of money to connect alcohol in our minds with coolness and relaxation. And we’ve been receiving these messages our entire lives, to the point where we might have a hard time imagining a party or barbecue being fun without alcohol available.
