SIMCOE MUSKOKA - As the holiday season approaches, filled with family gatherings, social events, and celebrations, many people may find themselves drinking more alcohol than usual. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is encouraging people to be mindful of their alcohol consumption during this time by providing key facts to help make informed decisions about their health.

If you choose to drink, Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health provides an easy way to figure out how you can lower the risks to your health. Recent research has led to updated guidance on alcohol and health, showing that drinking less is better for your overall well-being. There is a clear continuum of risk associated with alcohol use: as the number of drinks per week increases, so does the risk of long-term health issues, including seven types of cancer (such as breast and colorectal), cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and alcohol dependency. Additionally, alcohol use can lead to immediate harms like violence, injuries, and motor vehicle collisions. The more you drink, the higher your risk of experiencing these harms.

“A mindful approach to drinking over the holidays, is a gift to yourself and your loved ones this season,” says Mia Brown, manager of the health unit’s, Substance Use and Injury Prevention program. “When you reduce your alcohol consumption, not only do you lower your risk for serious health problems, but you will begin to experience other positive changes that can improve your social and mental well-being such as better sleep, increased energy during the day and improved decision-making that can lead to better relationships with your loved ones.” 

To lower your alcohol consumption, consider planning activities and gatherings that do not include alcohol, opting for non or low-alcoholic beverages, setting and sticking to a drink limit, measuring alcohol when mixing drinks, and pacing your alcohol intake. Other approaches include alternating alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages and eating before and during alcohol consumption.

If you are hosting a holiday gathering that includes alcohol, be sure to offer a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, have plenty of nutritious food options so no one drinks on an empty stomach, include activities and entertainment that shift the focus away from alcohol, and have a plan to get guests home safely.

For more tips on making safe and healthy choices about alcohol during the holiday season, visit smdhu.org/LetsTalkOverDrinks or call Health Connection on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.

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