There are lots of good health reasons for cutting down on alcohol including reducing your risk of six types of cancer. For some cancer types, alcohol is particularly harmful if you also smoke. Find out more about the Risk Factors around alcohol and cancer.

To reduce your cancer risk as much as possible, we recommend not drinking alcohol at all. If you do choose to drink alcohol, follow national guidelines. In the UK, the guideline is to drink no more than 14 units a week, which is roughly equal to seven drinks, spread over at least three days.

Tips for reducing your alcohol intake

Opt for the smallest serving size

Remember the standard serving size may not be the smallest. Avoid double measures of spirits, even if they are promoted as ‘better value’.

Alternate!

Alternate between alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic drinks such as water or low-calorie soft drinks.

• If you're entertaining at home, try our alcohol-free Berry Sparkle

Dilute alcoholic drinks

Dilute alcoholic drinks with a low-calorie mixer to make them last longer. For example, opt for a small white wine spritzer with soda water rather than a large glass of wine.

• How many calories are you drinking? Try our alcohol calorie counter

Alcohol-free days

Aim to keep a few days each week alcohol-free.