Maggie's

WCRF - Recommendation Six

Limiting alcohol consumption

The WCRF report recommends no alcohol consumption at all is the best option for cancer prevention. However, there is evidence that small amounts may have a protective effect on heart disease. If consumed at all, WCRF suggests limiting alcoholic drinks to two per day for men and one per day for women.

It's important to note that the benefits of small amounts of alcohol only outweigh the risks in those particularly at risk of heart disease, eg men aged 40 or over or postmenopausal women.
 
The scientific evidence linking certain cancers with alcoholic drinks is now quite strong. There is convincing evidence that alcohol increases the risk of: 

• Breast cancer
• Bowel cancer in men
• Oesophageal cancer
• Mouth, larynx and pharynx cancers
 
It may also increase the risk of liver cancer, as well as bowel cancer in women.
  
What is a unit measure? 
A unit of alcohol is equivalent to:
 
• 1/2 pint of beer or lager
• one 25ml measure of spirits
• one 125ml glass of wine (9-10%)
 
The problem we face now is that the % alcohol in drinks is increasing as are the glass sizes. A large glass of wine can now be approximately 250mls, which could be up to three units (depending on the % alcohol in the wine).
 
 
Tips 
• Always check with your doctor if you are able to take
  alcohol as some medications and chemotherapy are
  affected by it.
• Space alcohol intake out; do not binge drink over a few
  days.
• Aim for a few alcohol-free days each week.
• Alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach.