Based on guidelines from the Department of Health and Aged Care, for healthy adults, consuming no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than 4 standard drinks on any single day helps to reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury.
While no level of alcohol consumption is entirely risk-free, these guidelines provide a benchmark for lower-risk drinking for the general healthy adult population.
Understanding the Guidelines
The recommendations are designed to balance the potential harms associated with alcohol consumption with practical advice for reducing risks. The guidelines are based on scientific evidence and aim to minimize long-term health problems and acute injuries.
Key Limits for Healthy Adults
According to the Department of Health and Aged Care reference:
- Weekly Limit: No more than 10 standard drinks per week.
- Daily Limit: No more than 4 standard drinks on any one day.
It's important to spread your drinking across the week and have alcohol-free days to reduce overall risk.
What is a Standard Drink?
A "standard drink" is a unit used to measure the amount of pure alcohol in different alcoholic beverages. In Australia, a standard drink contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. The volume of liquid that constitutes a standard drink varies depending on the type of alcohol:
- A small glass of wine (100ml at 13% alcohol)
- A can of light beer (375ml at 2.7% alcohol)
- A shot of spirits (30ml at 40% alcohol)
Checking the label on alcoholic beverages will show how many standard drinks the container holds.
Risk Reduction, Not Elimination
Following these guidelines helps to significantly reduce the risk of harm. It's crucial to understand that this does not mean alcohol is entirely "safe" up to these limits. Risks still exist, particularly for certain individuals or in specific situations (e.g., while driving, during pregnancy, or with certain health conditions).
These guidelines are specifically for healthy adults and may not apply to:
- People under 18 years old
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Individuals with existing health conditions
- People taking certain medications
Always consider your personal health circumstances and consult a healthcare professional if you have questions about alcohol consumption and your health.
