Reducing your alcohol intake Accordion folder

On days when you are drinking alcohol, go for smaller sizes.

You could swap a large glass of wine for a smaller glass, a pint of beer for a bottle or half, or a double measure of spirits for a single.

You can also cut down on measures by choosing lower-strength drinks.

Swapping higher-strength wines or beers for ones with a lower volume of alcohol will help you reduce your intake. Look out for the ABV (in %) on the packaging.

Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you will have or what time you will stop. If you make a deal with yourself before you start it can be easier to stick to your plans.

Or, if you’re going out, only take a fixed amount of money to spend on alcohol and avoid getting into large rounds.

When you decide to cut down on your drinking, make sure you let your friends and family know.

If people who care about you know you are trying to reduce your drinking, they will be able to support you.

If you usually drink while socialising, try meeting your friends or loved ones in a different place or at a different time.

Doing something active like going for walk can help reduce stress, make you feel better and improve your health.

Having a laugh with a friend over a coffee is much healthier than going to the pub – and won’t lead to a hangover.