6. Limit alcoholic drinks
A closer look at the recommendations for reducing your overall cancer risk
If you drink alcohol, aim for no more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women
What is an alcoholic drink?
Wine, beer, liquor or spirits contain different amounts of alcohol per bottle, glass or can.
Type of alcohol |
What is one drink or serving? |
% Alcohol by volume |
| Wine | 2/3 of a cup 5 ounces 150 mL |
12 to 13% |
| Beer or lager | 1 1/2 cups 12 ounces 355 mL |
3 to 5% |
| Liquor/spirit such as vodka, whisky, run or gin | 3 tablespoons 1.5 ounces 45 mL |
40% |
Why avoid alcohol?
There is convincing evidence that higher alcohol intake increases the risk of breast cancer for pre- and post-menopausal women. Many alcoholic drinks (e.g. wine coolers) are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain.
How can you reduce your alcohol intake?
- Add ice to wine and liquor
- Try similar coloured drinks instead of wine or beer (such as unsweetened grape juice or ice tea)
- Alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Create sparkling drinks by adding soda water to wine
- Dilute alcoholic drinks with soda water or low calorie mixers
- Control your portion sizes by measuring instead of guessing
