Articles
Alcohol use: Weighing risks and benefits
Possible health benefits of moderate alcohol use
Guidelines for moderate alcohol use
When to avoid alcohol use
The risks of heavy alcohol use
Drink alcohol only in moderation — or not at all
Content
Defining moderate
Pros and cons of moderate alcohol use
Risks of heavy alcohol use
When to avoid alcohol
Deciding about drinking
Guidelines for moderate alcohol use
Moderate alcohol use for healthy adults means up to one drink a day for women of all ages and men older than age 65, and up to two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger.
Examples of one drink include:
- Beer: 12 fluid ounces (355 milliliters)
- Wine: 5 fluid ounces (148 milliliters)
- Distilled spirits (80 proof): 1.5 fluid ounces (44 milliliters)
Moderate alcohol use may be of most benefit if you have existing risk factors for heart disease. However, you can take other steps to improve your heart health besides drinking — eating a healthy diet and exercising, for example, which have more robust research behind them.
Keep in mind that even moderate use isn't risk-free. For example, drinking and driving is never a good idea.
