Research has revealed that 1 in 4 middle aged men in Norfolk are drinking more than the recommended limit of 14 units of alcohol per week, with over half of those likely to be binge drinking.
According to the UK Chief Medical Officer there's no completely safe level of drinking but keeping weekly consumption to under 14 units will keep your alcohol-related health risks to a low level. The long-term benefits of drinking less include reducing your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, strokes and certain types of cancer.
Cllr Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing said: “I’m really pleased to say that whilst there is an overall decrease in the average amount Norfolk residents are drinking, we are still seeing the heaviest drinking amongst men over forty.
“Whether you’re going to a regular pub quiz night, having drinks after work, celebrating a friend’s birthday – or just having a glass of wine after a long day – it can quickly add up. But knowing what 14 units of alcohol looks like doesn’t have to be confusing. A single pint of standard beer is 2 units, a medium glass of standard wine (175ml) is just over 2 units.
“The ‘Stop before 14’ campaign encourages men who may not currently be concerned about their level of drinking, to think about how much alcohol they consume and consider making small changes.
“Regularly drinking more than 14 units in a week can seriously affect our health, so we’re flagging up the physical and mental health benefits of drinking less, such as: better weight control, improved immunity, improved sleep, feeling more energetic, saving money – and of course, no more hangovers.”
For those who are not sure how much they are drinking and want to get a better understanding of what 14 units look like, Ready to Change is a free online tool offering step by step guidance to help you monitor and reduce your drinking and develop healthy habits for a healthier lifestyle. is a free online tool offering step by step guidance to help you monitor and reduce your drinking and develop healthy habits for a healthier lifestyle.
If you drink most days of the week and regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week you may be eligible for our free DrinkCoach service offering expert one to one guidance to help you drink less.
Find out if you’re eligible by completing the drinking quiz here.