April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to think about your alcohol consumption to ensure you are enjoying alcohol responsibly and in moderation. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, this means limiting alcohol to two drinks or less a day for men and one drink or less for women.
While any alcohol abuse is too much, the good news is federal data indicate harmful drinking in the U.S. is declining. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health shows binge drinking among adults ages 21-plus decreased 11% from 2018 to 2022, and 9 out of 10 (89%) say they drink the same amount or less than they did pre-pandemic.
Adults who choose to drink should commit to mindful drinking year-round. There are some people who should not drink alcohol at all, and talking with health care providers can help determine what is best, based on individual factors and family history.
Amanda Berger
Washington, D.C.
The writer is vice president, science and health, for the Distilled Spirits Council.