Alcohol

Drinking alcohol regularly can affect your physical and mental health. The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of problems such as high blood pressure, stroke, liver disease and some cancers.

Alcohol can also affect sleep, mood, energy levels and your ability to maintain a healthy weight. These effects can make it harder to stay active, manage pain and recover from injury or illness.

Cutting down or stopping drinking alcohol can bring benefits both now and in the long term. You may sleep better, have more energy, feel better in the morning and find it easier to concentrate. It can also support weight management and overall wellbeing.

Even small reductions can make a difference. You do not need to stop drinking completely to benefit from drinking less.

If you regularly experience shaking, sweating or anxiety until you have a drink, speak to a healthcare professional before stopping suddenly. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous.

Further information about drinking less alcohol

Read the NHS advice about drinking less alcohol