For many people, alcohol is part of how we mark special occasions, share good times with loved ones, celebrate holidays, and enjoy leisure time. When enjoyed responsibly, drinking alcohol can carry some benefits for physical and mental health. However, alcohol also carries some health risks. If you drink alcohol, it is important to understand both the risks and benefits.
HEALTH BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
Light to moderate alcohol consumption carries some possibility of health benefits, especially for the heart. This is defined as no more than one drink per day for women, two drinks per day for men. The image below demonstrates what could be counted as one drink. 
While drinking alcohol is not necessary for health and may not benefit everyone, this amount of alcohol might:
· Reduce your risk of developing heart disease
· Reduce your risk of dying of a heart attack
· Possibly reduce your risk of strokes
· Lower your risk of gallstones
HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
It is important to balance the possible benefits of light-moderate alcohol consumption with the health risks of too much alcohol. For some individuals, even a light-moderate amount of alcohol could increase risk. This image demonstrates a few of the health problems that may be associated with drinking alcohol:
Not mentioned above is the risk for those who are diabetic or at risk for diabetes. Alcohol is immediately converted into sugar. It will raise blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for diabetics and can increase the chance of becoming diabetic. Triglycerides are affected by many factors, but they are most sensitive to changes in alcohol consumption. If you are trying to lower your triglycerides, consider cutting back on alcohol. Heavy drinking by young adults has also been linked with osteoporosis and bone fractures later in life, because it pulls calcium away from the bones.
Anyone who is pregnant should discuss the risks of alcohol consumption with their prenatal care provider. Alcohol use during pregnancy is associated with fetal alcohol syndrome, which can be fatal. You can learn more at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001909/.
Alcohol consumption by breastfeeding mothers should also be discussed with an OB/GYN or pediatrician.
IMPAIRED JUDGEMENT
Alcohol should not be consumed in excess if you will be working, driving, operating machinery, engaging in risky sports (rock climbing, sky diving, etc.) or must be responsible for children. Alcoholic beverages should not be combined with energy drinks including caffeine and other stimulants (taurine, ginseng, etc). When combined, individuals cannot properly judge how impaired they are, and are more likely to drink excessively, drive while drunk, and make other dangerous choices. Blood alcohol levels of those consuming such mixed beverages (ie. vodka and Red Bull) are generally more than twice as high as those drinking alcohol alone.
ALCOHOL DEPENDANCE
If you suspect that you might be drinking too much alcohol, or if you wonder whether your relationship with alcohol is unhealthy, there are two sets of questions you might want to consider. These are known as the CAGE and the AUDIT. They can be found on this website. http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh28-2/78-79.htm. If you answer “yes” to two or more questions on the CAGE, move on to take the AUDIT. If you would like assistance with quitting or reducing your alcohol use, contact your Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
ALCOHOL AND MOOD
Some people drink alcohol when they are feeling low, in order to “drown their sorrows.” Others may drink alcohol to relax after a stressful day. While alcohol can alter mood, it should not be seen as a long-term solution to stress, anxiety or depression. Alcohol also does not assist with sleep problems. It may help you to fall asleep, but results in poor quality (less restorative) sleep. If you are struggling with any of these concerns, your EAP can help.
DRINK RESPONSIBLY
If alcohol will be a part of your leisure time or any special events this season, be sure to drink responsibly. That means determining safe limits and sticking to them so that you can enjoy alcohol without letting it take control of you.
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