RCP: Alcohol intake underestimated
Friday, 21 Dec 2007 12:48
People may not realise how much alcohol they are consuming, the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has warned.
Professor Ian Gilmore, RCP president and chair of the Alcohol Health Alliance, said some drinks have become stronger and glasses have been getting larger.
As such a small glass of wine can now be two units and large glasses three to four units.
His comments follow a survey by YouGov which found that almost half of 30- to 40-year-olds have not learnt to stick to alcohol limits.
"This research shows that binge drinking and hangovers are not just a problem for younger drinkers," Professor Gilmore said.
"People over 30 should be aware that their body is less likely to cope with the after-effects of alcohol; think carefully about the weekly amount they are drinking; and stick to the safe limits so as to avoid alcohol-related disease."