Learn more about alcohol use in Lambton County.
- Youth and young adults – The brain keeps developing until the mid-20s. Drinking during this time can affect brain growth.
- Older adults – Alcohol can interact with medications. As we age, our bodies process alcohol more slowly, making its effects stronger.
- Women – Alcohol affects women differently than men. The lifetime health risks are higher for women.
- People who plan to drive or use heavy machinery – Alcohol slows reaction time and affects judgment, increasing the risk of injury.
0 drinks per week
Not drinking has benefits, such as better health, and better sleep.
1 to 2 standard drinks per week
You will likely avoid alcohol-related consequences for yourself and others.
3 to 6 standard drinks per week
Your risk of developing several different types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer, increases.
7 or more standard drinks per week
Your risk of heart disease or stroke increases. Each additional standard drink radically increases the risk of these alcohol-related consequences.
- Beer – 341 ml (12 oz) at 5% alcohol
- Cooler, cider, ready-to-drink – 341 ml (12 oz) at 5% alcohol
- Wine – 142 ml (5 oz) at 12% alcohol
- Spirits (whisky, vodka, gin, etc.) – 43 ml (1.5 oz) at 40% alcohol
Use the Standard Drink Size Calculator to find out how many standard drinks are in your glass.
If you have questions about your personal health risks related to alcohol, talk to your health care provider.
- Track your drinks – Write down how much and how often you drink. This helps you see patterns and set goals.
- Set limits – Decide ahead of time how many drinks you’ll have and stick to it.
- Plan alcohol-free days – Take days off from drinking to lower your overall intake and give your body a break.
- Find alternatives – Try non-alcoholic options like sparkling water or alcohol-free beverages, especially at social events.
- Get support – see below.