A team of researchers and psychologists who specialize in behavioral health and neuroscience. This group collaborates to produce insightful and evidence-based content.
Certified recovery coach specialized in helping everyone redefine their relationship with alcohol. His approach in coaching focuses on habit formation and addressing the stress in our lives.
Recognized by Fortune and Fast Company as a top innovator shaping the future of health and known for his pivotal role in helping individuals change their relationship with alcohol.
December 23, 2022
·
19 min read
Reframe Content Team
December 23, 2022
·
19 min read
Imagine you're preparing for a festive get-together. You've laid out an assortment of cheeses, lit a few candles, and you're now deciding on drinks. Wine? Beer? A soft drink? As someone who’s looking to quit or cut back on alcohol, you might wonder — how much alcohol is actually too much? You might be surprised to know that when it comes to alcohol, less is always more. Let's explore the science behind it.
CDC Recommendations Over the Years
Over the last few decades, the CDC has been our go-to for answers about the limits of alcohol consumption. Let's see how their stance on booze has evolved over the decades.
1980s. The CDC started recognizing the dangers of heavy alcohol consumption, noting its links to traffic accidents, violence, and various health issues. Their primary focus was on waving a red flag on binge drinking to keep us safe from alcohol-related injuries and accidents.
1990s. The conversation expanded to address the potential health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption, particularly related to cardiovascular health. The guidelines of the time acknowledged that moderate alcohol consumption might have some protective effects, especially for older adults. (Spoiler alert — many of these claims have now been debunked).
Why these specific amounts? The human body breaks down alcohol at a fixed rate, and these recommendations are rooted in how the average person's liver processes alcohol. Consuming more than the CDC's guidelines can lead to a buildup of alcohol in the bloodstream, which affects brain functioning, reflexes, and decision-making. Chronic excessive drinking can also lead to a slew of health issues, including liver disease, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer.
2010s. Plot twist! Just when we thought we had a grip on the alcohol narrative, in this decade we were thrown a curveball. While the guidelines for moderate drinking remained consistent, awareness of the risks associated with even low levels of alcohol consumption continued to grow. Studies began to suggest that no amount of alcohol is entirely safe, leading the CDC to be more cautionary in its communication about potential benefits. By the latter half of this decade, there was a notable shift towards a more holistic approach that takes into account not just the physiological effects but the societal and mental health implications of alcohol consumption.
2020s. The message now? Tread carefully. While the CDC continues to focus on the dangers of excessive drinking, they have also shed light on the fact that no drink is 100% risk-free. There has also been an effort to destigmatize alcohol-related disorders and promote more supportive terms such as “alcohol use disorder” instead of “alcoholism” or “alcoholic.”
A Word From the WHO
In addition to the CDC, the World Health Organization has also provided guidelines about alcohol use over the years. As a global organization, the WHO doesn’t provide specific guidelines, instead focusing on publicizing the dangers of excessive alcohol use and encouraging each country to set national guidelines based on its population’s drinking patterns and related harm.
Their data suggests that 58% of all global alcohol consumers partake in heavy episodic drinking, which they define as consuming 60 or more grams of pure alcohol on at least one occasion in the past 30 days. This translates roughly to five or more drinks for men and four or more for women over a 2-hour period.
Alcohol Guidelines Around the World
It should come as no surprise that specific recommendations for alcohol consumption vary by country. This disparity stems from cultural differences, varying research interpretations, and different societal norms. Let’s explore how much alcohol is too much per week according to different guidelines around the globe!
Australia. In “the Land Down Under,” the advice is to stick to no more than 10 drinks a week, and definitely no more than 4 in a day.
Canada. Canadian guidelines are even more stringent. As of 2023, the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse and Addiction suggests that 2 standard drinks per week (or less) is least likely to lead to alcohol-related consequences.
United Kingdom. The Brits keep it uniform for everyone by recommending drinkers to stick to 14 units a week, ideally spread over at least three days.
South Africa. South Africans are advised not to exceed 14 units of alcohol a week, making their guidelines similar to those in the UK.
France. The French, famous for their wine, recommend a maximum of two glasses per day, which shouldn't exceed 10 glasses per week.
Germany. German guidelines suggest men consume no more than 24 grams of pure alcohol daily (roughly two drinks), and women limit themselves to 12 grams (about one drink).
Brazil. Brazil advises men to limit their alcohol intake to 21 units per week and women to 14 units per week. The country also places strong emphasis on the dangers of binge drinking.
India. With a significant portion of the population abstaining from alcohol for religious and cultural reasons, those who do drink are advised to limit their consumption. Guidelines suggest up to two drinks per day for men and one for women.
China. While traditional beverages like baijiu are popular, moderation is key. Guidelines suggest no more than 25 grams of pure alcohol for men and 15 grams for women daily.
Japan. In Japan, moderate drinking is characterized as up to one drink per day. However, it's worth noting that societal norms often influence drinking habits, especially among men, and heavy drinking can sometimes be seen as a bonding ritual.
Recent Twist: A Closer Look
Remember the plot twist we mentioned earlier — the one based on recent studies that challenged the idea that some alcohol might be beneficial? Let’s explore it a bit further.
For years, a glass of wine with dinner or the occasional beer was touted as not just harmless, but even beneficial. Numerous studies suggested that moderate drinking might offer some protection against heart diseases, strokes, and even early death. These studies painted a rosy picture: moderate drinkers might live longer and healthier than heavy drinkers or even teetotalers.
As with all scientific discoveries, however, newer insights can challenge old beliefs. In March 2023, JAMA published a closer examination of the studies linking moderate alcohol consumption to a lower risk of death, suggesting that most did not stand up to scrutiny. The primary concern? Design flaws. Many of the former studies categorized both lifelong abstainers and former drinkers who quit due to alcohol-related health problems under the same umbrella as "non-drinkers." Doing so skewed the results: comparing moderate drinkers to a group that included people who've quit drinking due to its harmful effects on their health created the illusion that the moderate drinkers were “healthier.”
Is Any Amount of Alcohol Safe?
A landmark global study in the 2018 issue of Lancet added more weight to the idea that moderate drinking might not be as healthy as once thought. Analyzing data from hundreds of thousands of participants, it concluded that the safest level of drinking is actually none at all! Even moderate drinking was linked with increased risks of various ailments, including cancer and injuries.
The key takeaway? A growing body of evidence suggests that no amount of alcohol is entirely risk-free.
While the occasional drink isn't being labeled as a direct ticket to health issues, it's clear that the previous claims of its health benefits are on shaky ground. The shift is now more towards caution, emphasizing that while an occasional drink might not be harmful for many, it doesn't come with the health perks we once thought.
In the end, the alcohol narrative is a reminder that science is ever-evolving. What's crucial is staying informed and making choices that align with both current research and individual needs. In particular, it’s important to be mindful of the unique vulnerabilities of certain groups, such as pregnant women, adolescents (whose brains have not completely developed and are more likely to suffer serious consequences of alcohol misuse), and the elderly (whose health might be compromised by other conditions).
More Changes on the Horizon
There might be even bigger changes on the horizon when it comes to alcohol recommendations in the U.S.
According to George Koob, Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, there has been talk about tightening the guidelines even further — to as little as 2 drinks per week. The new recommendation comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and it matches the guidelines already established in Canada.
The process of revising the guidelines is set to be completed by 2025, so the verdict is still out.
However, as Koob sums up the future of alcohol guidelines in an interview with The Daily Mail, "I mean, they're not going to go up, I'm pretty sure. So, if [alcohol consumption guidelines] go in any direction, it would be toward Canada."
Because the term "alcoholic" can be misleading and stigmatizing, the medical community now uses "Alcohol Use Disorder" (AUD) — a condition characterized by an inability to stop or control alcohol consumption despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It takes into account a spectrum of severity — mild, moderate, or severe — based on the number of symptoms a person exhibits. The shift from the term "alcoholic" to understanding AUD marks a move towards a more nuanced, empathetic, and medically informed perspective on alcohol-related issues.
Here are some of the key indicators of AUD:
Uncontrolled consumption: drinking more alcohol or for longer periods than intended
Desire to cut down: persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control alcohol use
Time spent: spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of alcohol
Impact on responsibilities: recurrent alcohol use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
Interpersonal issues: continued alcohol use despite having social or interpersonal problems caused or worsened by drinking
Relinquished activities: important social, occupational, or recreational activities reduced or abandoned because of alcohol use
High-risk usage: using alcohol in situations where it's physically hazardous
Tolerance: needing more alcohol to achieve the desired effect or finding that the same amount has a reduced effect over time
Withdrawal symptoms: experiencing withdrawal symptoms when alcohol effects wear off, or consuming alcohol (or a similar substance) to avoid withdrawal symptoms
Neglect of physical and mental health: alcohol use is continued even though it's known to cause or exacerbate physical or psychological problems
Meeting just two of these criteria in a 12-month period may indicate the presence of AUD, with the severity (mild, moderate, or severe) determined by the number of criteria met.
Action Steps: Navigating Alcohol Consumption
If you're looking to quit or cut back on alcohol, here are seven specific, actionable steps you can take:
Know your limits. Familiarize yourself with the CDC guidelines or those of your country.
Opt for non-alcoholic beverages. Try out mocktails, herbal teas, or sparkling waters when socializing.
Seek support. Join support groups or networks for individuals reducing alcohol consumption (Reframe is a great place to start!).
Avoid triggers. Recognize what prompts you to drink and try to plan around those situations and people.
Stay active. Engage in physical activities or hobbies to distract from the desire to drink.
Educate yourself. Stay up-to-date on recent research on alcohol to keep your motivation high.
Consult professionals. If you feel you might have AUD, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice!
In the end, how alcohol fits into your life is a personal decision. If you’re considering cutting back or quitting, remember this: the festive get-togethers, celebrations, and activities that you might have previously associated with alcohol will bring you just as much — and possibly more — joy in the future. Every step you take towards reducing your consumption is a victory. Stay informed, seek support, and celebrate the small wins!
Imagine you're preparing for a festive get-together. You've laid out an assortment of cheeses, lit a few candles, and you're now deciding on drinks. Wine? Beer? A soft drink? As someone who’s looking to quit or cut back on alcohol, you might wonder — how much alcohol is actually too much? You might be surprised to know that when it comes to alcohol, less is always more. Let's explore the science behind it.
CDC Recommendations Over the Years
Over the last few decades, the CDC has been our go-to for answers about the limits of alcohol consumption. Let's see how their stance on booze has evolved over the decades.
1980s. The CDC started recognizing the dangers of heavy alcohol consumption, noting its links to traffic accidents, violence, and various health issues. Their primary focus was on waving a red flag on binge drinking to keep us safe from alcohol-related injuries and accidents.
1990s. The conversation expanded to address the potential health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption, particularly related to cardiovascular health. The guidelines of the time acknowledged that moderate alcohol consumption might have some protective effects, especially for older adults. (Spoiler alert — many of these claims have now been debunked).
Why these specific amounts? The human body breaks down alcohol at a fixed rate, and these recommendations are rooted in how the average person's liver processes alcohol. Consuming more than the CDC's guidelines can lead to a buildup of alcohol in the bloodstream, which affects brain functioning, reflexes, and decision-making. Chronic excessive drinking can also lead to a slew of health issues, including liver disease, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer.
2010s. Plot twist! Just when we thought we had a grip on the alcohol narrative, in this decade we were thrown a curveball. While the guidelines for moderate drinking remained consistent, awareness of the risks associated with even low levels of alcohol consumption continued to grow. Studies began to suggest that no amount of alcohol is entirely safe, leading the CDC to be more cautionary in its communication about potential benefits. By the latter half of this decade, there was a notable shift towards a more holistic approach that takes into account not just the physiological effects but the societal and mental health implications of alcohol consumption.
2020s. The message now? Tread carefully. While the CDC continues to focus on the dangers of excessive drinking, they have also shed light on the fact that no drink is 100% risk-free. There has also been an effort to destigmatize alcohol-related disorders and promote more supportive terms such as “alcohol use disorder” instead of “alcoholism” or “alcoholic.”
A Word From the WHO
In addition to the CDC, the World Health Organization has also provided guidelines about alcohol use over the years. As a global organization, the WHO doesn’t provide specific guidelines, instead focusing on publicizing the dangers of excessive alcohol use and encouraging each country to set national guidelines based on its population’s drinking patterns and related harm.
Their data suggests that 58% of all global alcohol consumers partake in heavy episodic drinking, which they define as consuming 60 or more grams of pure alcohol on at least one occasion in the past 30 days. This translates roughly to five or more drinks for men and four or more for women over a 2-hour period.
Alcohol Guidelines Around the World
It should come as no surprise that specific recommendations for alcohol consumption vary by country. This disparity stems from cultural differences, varying research interpretations, and different societal norms. Let’s explore how much alcohol is too much per week according to different guidelines around the globe!
Australia. In “the Land Down Under,” the advice is to stick to no more than 10 drinks a week, and definitely no more than 4 in a day.
Canada. Canadian guidelines are even more stringent. As of 2023, the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse and Addiction suggests that 2 standard drinks per week (or less) is least likely to lead to alcohol-related consequences.
United Kingdom. The Brits keep it uniform for everyone by recommending drinkers to stick to 14 units a week, ideally spread over at least three days.
South Africa. South Africans are advised not to exceed 14 units of alcohol a week, making their guidelines similar to those in the UK.
France. The French, famous for their wine, recommend a maximum of two glasses per day, which shouldn't exceed 10 glasses per week.
Germany. German guidelines suggest men consume no more than 24 grams of pure alcohol daily (roughly two drinks), and women limit themselves to 12 grams (about one drink).
Brazil. Brazil advises men to limit their alcohol intake to 21 units per week and women to 14 units per week. The country also places strong emphasis on the dangers of binge drinking.
India. With a significant portion of the population abstaining from alcohol for religious and cultural reasons, those who do drink are advised to limit their consumption. Guidelines suggest up to two drinks per day for men and one for women.
China. While traditional beverages like baijiu are popular, moderation is key. Guidelines suggest no more than 25 grams of pure alcohol for men and 15 grams for women daily.
Japan. In Japan, moderate drinking is characterized as up to one drink per day. However, it's worth noting that societal norms often influence drinking habits, especially among men, and heavy drinking can sometimes be seen as a bonding ritual.
Recent Twist: A Closer Look
Remember the plot twist we mentioned earlier — the one based on recent studies that challenged the idea that some alcohol might be beneficial? Let’s explore it a bit further.
For years, a glass of wine with dinner or the occasional beer was touted as not just harmless, but even beneficial. Numerous studies suggested that moderate drinking might offer some protection against heart diseases, strokes, and even early death. These studies painted a rosy picture: moderate drinkers might live longer and healthier than heavy drinkers or even teetotalers.
As with all scientific discoveries, however, newer insights can challenge old beliefs. In March 2023, JAMA published a closer examination of the studies linking moderate alcohol consumption to a lower risk of death, suggesting that most did not stand up to scrutiny. The primary concern? Design flaws. Many of the former studies categorized both lifelong abstainers and former drinkers who quit due to alcohol-related health problems under the same umbrella as "non-drinkers." Doing so skewed the results: comparing moderate drinkers to a group that included people who've quit drinking due to its harmful effects on their health created the illusion that the moderate drinkers were “healthier.”
Is Any Amount of Alcohol Safe?
A landmark global study in the 2018 issue of Lancet added more weight to the idea that moderate drinking might not be as healthy as once thought. Analyzing data from hundreds of thousands of participants, it concluded that the safest level of drinking is actually none at all! Even moderate drinking was linked with increased risks of various ailments, including cancer and injuries.
The key takeaway? A growing body of evidence suggests that no amount of alcohol is entirely risk-free.
While the occasional drink isn't being labeled as a direct ticket to health issues, it's clear that the previous claims of its health benefits are on shaky ground. The shift is now more towards caution, emphasizing that while an occasional drink might not be harmful for many, it doesn't come with the health perks we once thought.
In the end, the alcohol narrative is a reminder that science is ever-evolving. What's crucial is staying informed and making choices that align with both current research and individual needs. In particular, it’s important to be mindful of the unique vulnerabilities of certain groups, such as pregnant women, adolescents (whose brains have not completely developed and are more likely to suffer serious consequences of alcohol misuse), and the elderly (whose health might be compromised by other conditions).
More Changes on the Horizon
There might be even bigger changes on the horizon when it comes to alcohol recommendations in the U.S.
According to George Koob, Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, there has been talk about tightening the guidelines even further — to as little as 2 drinks per week. The new recommendation comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and it matches the guidelines already established in Canada.
The process of revising the guidelines is set to be completed by 2025, so the verdict is still out.
However, as Koob sums up the future of alcohol guidelines in an interview with The Daily Mail, "I mean, they're not going to go up, I'm pretty sure. So, if [alcohol consumption guidelines] go in any direction, it would be toward Canada."
Because the term "alcoholic" can be misleading and stigmatizing, the medical community now uses "Alcohol Use Disorder" (AUD) — a condition characterized by an inability to stop or control alcohol consumption despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It takes into account a spectrum of severity — mild, moderate, or severe — based on the number of symptoms a person exhibits. The shift from the term "alcoholic" to understanding AUD marks a move towards a more nuanced, empathetic, and medically informed perspective on alcohol-related issues.
Here are some of the key indicators of AUD:
Uncontrolled consumption: drinking more alcohol or for longer periods than intended
Desire to cut down: persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control alcohol use
Time spent: spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of alcohol
Impact on responsibilities: recurrent alcohol use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
Interpersonal issues: continued alcohol use despite having social or interpersonal problems caused or worsened by drinking
Relinquished activities: important social, occupational, or recreational activities reduced or abandoned because of alcohol use
High-risk usage: using alcohol in situations where it's physically hazardous
Tolerance: needing more alcohol to achieve the desired effect or finding that the same amount has a reduced effect over time
Withdrawal symptoms: experiencing withdrawal symptoms when alcohol effects wear off, or consuming alcohol (or a similar substance) to avoid withdrawal symptoms
Neglect of physical and mental health: alcohol use is continued even though it's known to cause or exacerbate physical or psychological problems
Meeting just two of these criteria in a 12-month period may indicate the presence of AUD, with the severity (mild, moderate, or severe) determined by the number of criteria met.
Action Steps: Navigating Alcohol Consumption
If you're looking to quit or cut back on alcohol, here are seven specific, actionable steps you can take:
Know your limits. Familiarize yourself with the CDC guidelines or those of your country.
Opt for non-alcoholic beverages. Try out mocktails, herbal teas, or sparkling waters when socializing.
Seek support. Join support groups or networks for individuals reducing alcohol consumption (Reframe is a great place to start!).
Avoid triggers. Recognize what prompts you to drink and try to plan around those situations and people.
Stay active. Engage in physical activities or hobbies to distract from the desire to drink.
Educate yourself. Stay up-to-date on recent research on alcohol to keep your motivation high.
Consult professionals. If you feel you might have AUD, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice!
In the end, how alcohol fits into your life is a personal decision. If you’re considering cutting back or quitting, remember this: the festive get-togethers, celebrations, and activities that you might have previously associated with alcohol will bring you just as much — and possibly more — joy in the future. Every step you take towards reducing your consumption is a victory. Stay informed, seek support, and celebrate the small wins!
Summary FAQs
1. How does the CDC define moderate drinking?
The CDC classifies moderate drinking as up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.
2. What's the reason behind these specific drinking guidelines?
These guidelines are based on how the average person's liver processes alcohol. Consuming beyond these limits can lead to alcohol buildup in the bloodstream, affecting brain function, reflexes, and decision-making.
3. Do alcohol consumption recommendations vary globally?
Yes, they do. For instance, Australia suggests no more than 10 drinks a week, Canada has gender-specific guidelines, and the UK advises not exceeding 14 units a week for both men and women.
4. Is there any safe level of alcohol consumption according to recent studies?
A comprehensive study from 2018 concluded that the safest level of drinking is none, highlighting that even moderate drinking has associated risks.
5. Has the idea that moderate drinking offers health benefits been debunked?
Yes, recent investigations have found design flaws in studies that previously suggested health benefits from moderate drinking. The current stance is that while occasional drinks might not be directly harmful, they aren't necessarily beneficial either.
6. What's the medical terminology for someone struggling with alcohol?
The term "alcoholic" is considered outdated and stigmatizing. The medical community now uses "Alcohol Use Disorder" (AUD) to describe conditions related to problematic alcohol consumption.
7. Are there any steps recommended for someone looking to reduce alcohol intake?
Absolutely! Some steps include familiarizing oneself with alcohol guidelines, trying non-alcoholic beverages, seeking support groups, recognizing and avoiding triggers, staying active, educating oneself on the latest alcohol research, and consulting professionals if needed.
Ready To Change Your Relationship With Alcohol? Reframe Is Here To Help!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Reframe has helped over 2 millions people to build healthier drinking habits globally
At Reframe, we do science, not stigma. We base our articles on the latest peer-reviewed research in psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science. We follow the Reframe Content Creation Guidelines, to ensure that we share accurate and actionable information with our readers. This aids them in making informed decisions on their wellness journey. Learn more
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