'Moderate' drinking impact

Dr Ruth Hussey says that there's an alarming increasing trend in harm related to alcohol and it's costing too much.

• Health

The 'Change 4 Life' campaign recommends lifestyle changes to help reduce the amount of alcohol we drink.

• You can still enjoy a drink, just have less
• Instead of a strong beer or wine, have one with a lower alcohol content
• Try adding a mixer to make it last longer
• Take a break between drinks and have a soft drink in between to help you stay hydrated
• Try only drinking at home with your main meal

Health experts say you will feel the benefits of drinking less very quickly.

• Feeling better in the mornings
• Having more energy and feeling less tired during the day
• Your skin may start to look better
• You'll start to feel in better shape
• You may stop gaining weight or lose some pounds

There are also suggestions of how to relax and unwind without having a drink.

• pampering yourself with a bath
• sipping a cup of herbal tea
• rediscovering your music collection
• catching up with an old friend on the phone
• walking the dog
• starting a new hobby
• going for a run, a swim or a bike ride
• joining a club, gym or five-a-side team
• treating the family to a day out

• Health