Know your limits, St Patrick’s Day revellers warned

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is warning revellers taking part in St Patrick’s Day celebrations to keep an eye on their alcohol intake.

The PHA has issued a series of tips to help those enjoying a tipple make the most of the holiday without putting themselves at risk

The department is reminding those drowning the shamrock this week of the dangers of binge drinking, and emphasising the need to take care of friends and family during the holiday celebrations.

Recommended guidelines are for to men drink no more than three to four units of alcohol a day, and no more than 21 units over a week.

For women, it is recommended that they drink no more than two to three units of alcohol a day and no more than 14 units over a week.

Victoria Creasy, health and social wellbeing improvement senior officer at the PHA, said:“A lot of people will be making plans to meet up with their friends and family to celebrate St Patrick’s Day and we are urging them to keep an eye on their alcohol intake should they choose to drink.

“Units of alcohol need to be spread out over the week – you can’t ‘save up’ your units for a particular day or a party. Binge drinking can have a major impact on health such as causing damage to the liver, heart, brain and stomach.

“Overindulging in alcohol can also spoil the holiday for you, your family and friends.”

The PHA has issued a series of tips to help those enjoying a tipple make the most of the holiday without putting themselves at risk. These include eating beforehand to slow down the absorption of alcohol, alternating each alcoholic drink with a non-alcoholic drink, and avoiding drinking in rounds or having a kitty as it may result in drinking more.

For more information on alcohol limits, visit www.knowyourlimits.info