PRESS RELEASE
SIMCOE MUSKOKA DISTRICT HEALTH UNIT
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As the holiday season approaches, filled with family gatherings, social events and celebrations, many people may find themselves drinking more alcohol than usual.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is encouraging people to be mindful of their alcohol consumption during this time by providing key facts to help them make informed decisions about their health.

If you choose to drink, Canadian Guide to Alcohol and Health provides a simple way to determine how you can reduce your health risks. Recent research has led to updated advice on alcohol and health, showing that drinking less is better for your overall wellbeing.

There is a clear continuum of risks associated with alcohol consumption: as the number of drinks per week increases, so does the risk of long-term health problems, including seven types of cancer (such as breast cancer and colorectal), cardiovascular diseases and liver diseases. and alcohol dependence. Additionally, alcohol consumption can lead to immediate harms such as violence, injuries, and motor vehicle collisions. The more you drink, the higher your risk of experiencing these harms.

“A mindful approach to holiday drinking is a gift to you and your loved ones this season,” says Mia Brown, manager of the health unit’s substance use and injury prevention program. “When you reduce your alcohol consumption, not only will you reduce your risk of serious health problems, but you will also begin to experience other positive changes that can improve your social and mental well-being, such as better sleep, increased energy during the day and improved decision-making which can lead to better relationships with your loved ones.

To reduce your alcohol consumption, consider planning activities and gatherings that do not include alcohol, opting for non-alcoholic or low-alcohol drinks, setting and sticking to a drinking limit, measuring alcohol alcohol when mixing drinks and control your alcohol intake. Other approaches include alternating alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks and eating before and during alcohol consumption.

If you are hosting a holiday gathering that includes alcohol, be sure to offer a selection of non-alcoholic drinks, provide plenty of nutritious food options so no one is drinking on an empty stomach, include activities and entertainment that distracts from the alcohol, and have a plan to get guests home safely.

For more tips on making healthy and safe choices around alcohol during the holiday season, visit smdhu.org/LetsTalkOverDrinks or call Health Connection weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.

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