Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines (for people of legal drinking age)

Maximize Life, Minimize Risk

• Zero drinks = lowest risk of an alcohol-related problem
• No more than 2 standard drinks on any one day
• Women: up to 9 standard drinks a week
• Men: up to 14 standard drinks a week
• One Standard Drink =13.6 g of alcohol
• If you don't already drink, don't start for health reasons.
• If you do drink, avoid getting intoxicated or drunk.
• Wait at least one hour between drinks.
• Have something to eat.
• Drink non-alcoholic beverages, such as water, soft drinks or fruit juice

The guidelines don’t apply if you:

• Have health problems such as liver disease or mental illness
• Are taking certain medications
• Have a personal or family history of drinking problems
• Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breast feeding
• Will be operating vehicles
• Need to be alert
• Will be doing sports or other physical activities
• Are responsible for the safety of others 
• Are told not to drink for legal, medical or other reasons

If you are concerned about how drinking may affect your health, check with your doctor.

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