NHS: 14 units a week may lower risk of harm

The NHS says there is no completely safe amount of alcohol, but drinking 14 units or less a week is linked to a lower risk of harm; one unit equals about 10 ml (8 g) of pure alcohol and typically takes around an hour for an average adult to process.

The NHS has reiterated guidance on alcohol units as many people prepare for New Year celebrations. The service noted there is no completely safe amount of alcohol. It said people are at lower risk of harm if they drink 14 units or less per week. The NHS also highlighted that tracking units can help people remain within that limit. Key points: - The NHS stated there is no completely safe level of alcohol consumption, but 14 units or less a week is associated with a lower risk of harm. - One unit is defined as 10 ml (8 g) of pure alcohol, and the average adult typically processes one unit in about an hour. - Regularly drinking more than 14 units a week can, over 10 to 20 years, contribute to health problems including some kidney conditions and certain cancers, according to the guidance. - Drinking a large amount on a single occasion carries additional immediate risks, including injury and death. - The NHS noted that tracking units can help people know their limits and stay in control. Summary: The guidance frames 14 units or less per week as linked to a lower risk of harm and outlines both long-term health risks from regular heavier drinking and immediate risks from single heavy episodes. The NHS also pointed readers to further information on units and limits. Undetermined at this time.