Take it from me...

Having a drink with friends and family is one of life's shared pleasures. The Australian Government's Australian Alcohol Guidelines: Health Risks and Benefits document states that responsible drinking can be part of a healthy lifestyle. Research shows that for some people, moderate consumption combined with a good diet and exercise can deliver health benefits - such as reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering cholesterol.

However, drink too much and too often and you run the risk of harming your health.

So here's a few tips so you can enjoy alcohol without going overboard.

• Drink moderately and enjoy it.
• Try to have at least 1 or 2 alcohol-free days a week.
• Eat when you drink to slow down the rate at which alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream.
• Drink water too.
• Be aware of how much alcohol you're consuming and how fast you are drinking it.
• And look out for your mates.

Further information can be found at the Australian Government's information site for alcohol: www.alcohol.gov.au

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