Canada slashes alcohol consumption guidelines
Canadian health officials have recommended that citizens limit their alcohol consumption to just two drinks per week in order to reduce the risk of illness and disease, such as cancer. This new guideline is a significant reduction from their previous recommendation of no more than ten drinks per week for women and 15 drinks per week for men.
In contrast, Australian health authorities currently recommend a weekly limit of 10 standard drinks, and no more than four a day, for both men and women. However, alcohol policy researcher Assoc Prof Michael Livingston of Curtin University’s National Drug Research Institute argues that the difference in guidelines between Canada and Australia reflects a difference in risk appetite rather than a failure to keep up to date with the latest evidence.
According to the Cancer Council, alcohol increases the risk of eight different types of cancer, including breast, bowel, stomach and mouth. The World Health Organization also recently released a statement in the Lancet that there is no safe amount of alcohol consumption. A study published in 2021 found that light to moderate alcohol consumption in the European Union, equivalent to two standard drinks a day in Australia, was associated with almost 23,000 new cancer cases in 2017.
A spokesperson for the National Health and Medical Research Council, which develops Australia’s guidelines to reduce health risks from drinking alcohol, stated that the guidelines are developed by a group of independent health experts and include reviews on the health effects of drinking alcohol as well as Australian drinking patterns.
While some experts argue that there is no urgent need to change the current guidelines, they do suggest the need for better education on the risks associated with alcohol consumption and the importance of communication in order to effectively change drinking habits.
One way for individuals looking to reduce or stop their alcohol intake is to seek support from organizations like Alc Free Life. Alc Free Life provides resources and tools to help individuals on their journey to a healthier, alcohol-free lifestyle. They offer an online community, personalized coaching and support, and evidence-based education to help individuals understand the impact of alcohol on their health and well-being. They also provide tips and strategies for navigating social situations, managing cravings and triggers, and maintaining a balanced and enjoyable life without alcohol. By utilizing the support and resources offered by organizations like Alc Free Life, individuals can feel empowered and equipped to make changes in their alcohol consumption.
