As an online retailer selling alcohol it is important to us that people purchasing our products not only enjoy them but also ensure that they drink responsibly. We want drinking our products to be a pleasurable and sociable experience where you stay healthy and in control. Many drink alcohol to unwind and relax but we are aware that there will be times when drinking or drinking too much can be dangerous for you or others around you or there will be some people who need help to moderate their drinking.
How much is too much?
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines low-risk drinking as no more than 4 drinks on any single day and no more than 14 drinks per week for men, and no more than 3 drinks on any single day and no more than 7 drinks per week for women. Even within these limits, risks are not zero, and drinks should be spread across the week rather than consumed in one continuous session. Some people, including those with certain health conditions or taking certain medications, should drink less or not at all.
In the US, a standard drink contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol. That is roughly 12 fl oz of regular beer (about 5% ABV), 5 fl oz of wine (about 12% ABV), or 1.5 fl oz of distilled spirits (about 40% ABV). Many cocktails, craft beers and larger wine pours contain more than one standard drink.
No alcohol should be consumed when driving or if you're planning to drive, when pregnant or trying to become pregnant, or in certain work situations. It is illegal in all US states for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase alcohol, and those over 21 should set a good example of moderation for young people to observe.
Ensure you eat before or with your drink, stick to one type of drink, alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks and know your limits.
Advice & Support
How to find out more about drinking responsibly
The NIAAA Rethinking Drinking website provides an excellent resource about alcohol including facts covering topics such as what counts as a standard drink and the risks of drinking too much, as well as information from the CDC on binge drinking and the hidden risks of 'social drinking'.
Getting advice and support
If you feel you need help with your drinking or are looking to find support for someone else, help is available and should be sought. NIAAA suggests you may need help if any of the following apply to you:
- you often feel the need to have a drink
- you get into trouble because of your drinking
- other people warn you about how much you're drinking
- you think your drinking is causing you problems
If you have become physically dependent and need to stop drinking completely, stopping suddenly could be harmful and even life-threatening. Please ensure you seek help and advice from your doctor or other healthcare provider.
Other sources of support:
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- Al-Anon Family Groups
- SMART Recovery
- National Association for Children of Addiction
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
- SAMHSA National Helpline Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357), free, confidential, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.