Not-So-Tipsy Tips to Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Below are “not so tipsy” tips to reduce alcohol intake...

1. Try dry February. Studies show that forgoing alcohol for one month may reduce future alcohol consumption.
2. Limit alcohol consumption to weekends only. Think of how much better your sleep will be during the week!
3. Drink a bottle of water between each alcoholic drink. This will reduce alcohol intake and reduce your risk of dehydration and hangover.
4. Make mocktails using flavored seltzer water.
5. Keep a “tip jar” for money not spent on wine, beer, or spirits. Treat yourself to something special with the money.
6. Celebrate holidays with sparkling cider.
7. Pay attention to peer pressure. Avoid being coerced to drink in social situations.
8. Don’t drink and drive. This is a no brainer.

By Lisa Andrews, MEd, RD, LDReferences:

1. Rao R, Creese B, Aarsland D, Kalafatis C, Khan Z, Corbett A, Ballard C. Risky drinking and cognitive impairment in community residents aged 50 and over. Aging Ment Health. 2021 Nov 12:1-8. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2021.2000938. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34766529.
2. de Visser RO, Nicholls J. Temporary abstinence during Dry January: predictors of success; impact on well-being and self-efficacy. Psychol Health. 2020 Nov;35(11):1293-1305. doi: 10.1080/08870446.2020.1743840. Epub 2020 Mar 27. PMID: 32216557.