Is your drinking out of control?

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Wed 2 September 2009

Excessive alcohol consumption is replacing smoking as the number 1 health problem in the UK. Is your daily glass of wine damaging your health?

Our consumption of wine, beer and spirits continues to increase - as does the number of people affected by alcohol related illness and death.

But there is a great deal of confusion over what is the "correct" or safe amount of alcohol to drink, with even government departments and advisers at odds when it comes to the right message to send to the public.

It is clear that binge drinking is a major health and social problem, as is alcohol consumption in young people. But what about daily drinking in moderation? And are there not good health reasons to drink alcohol?

In this guide we show how to calculate your actual alcohol intake, and give hints and tips on how to keep your drinking to moderate levels. We also look at some alcohol myths, and explain the effects of alcohol on your body and your health.