woman on deck drinking wine

Settling the Tab with Alcohol Consumption

By
Community Health Network
April 20, 2021
Behavioral Health

Heavy drinking carries some pretty scary implications for your health. For instance, did you know that drinking alcohol can affect your heart health? It’s true — it’s called holiday heart syndrome, but it can happen at any time of year.

Learn more about drinking, its health effects and where to turn for help below.

How much is too much to drink?
Infographic Transcript: Settling the Tab with Alcohol Consumption

How much is too much to drink? And how do you even define "a drink" anyway? Your common questions about alcohol get answered!

What qualifies as "a drink"?

  • A glass of beer is 12oz, 5% ABV
  • A glass of wine is 5 oz, 12% ABV
  • A shot of distilled spirits is 1.5oz, 40% ABV (80 proof)

How many drinks is ok in one sitting?

  • For women, up to 1 drink
  • For men, up to 2 drinks

How many is too many?

In one night:

  • 4+ drinks for women
  • 5+ drinks for men

In one week:

  • 8+ drinks for women
  • 15+ drinks for men

Heavy drinking carries health risks

In the short term:

  • Car crashes
  • Falls and other injuries
  • Alcohol poisoning
  • Risky behaviors

In the long term:

  • Heart disease
  • Weakened immune system
  • Memory problems
  • Depression and anxiety

Common signs of alcohol abuse

14.5 million people have an alcohol use disorder (2019 NSDUH).

  • Blackouts or short-term memory loss
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Making excuses for your drinking
  • Ignoring responsibilities
  • Added tension in your relationships

You’re never cut off from support at Community Health Network.

Find help for substance abuse disorder at eCommunity.com/mentalhealth.

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