Is wine good for you?

Beware of binge drinking

According to Alcohol Concern, at least one in four men and one in seven women drink more than the guidelines. This can make you more vulnerable to heart disorders, including high blood pressure and stroke, even if you are not in a high-risk group. For women in their twenties, drinking heavily can contribute to osteoporosis later on.

Binge drinking is especially harmful and can damage the brain. Regular heavy drinking is associated with a wide range of other health problems from liver disease to loss of libido, menstrual problems, nerve and muscle damage, and psychiatric problems, including clinical depression, as well as increased risk of accidents.

Alcohol is thought to be responsible for about three per cent of all cancer cases - people who drink more than five units a day are more likely to develop cancer of the mouth, larynx or oesophagus. But Dr Morten Gronbaek from the Danish National Health Institute argues that moderate wine drinkers have fewer coronary diseases and cancers than those who prefer other alcoholic drinks.

The jury is still out....

How many units are you really drinking?

Use this guide to see how many units of alcohol are in a small 125ml glass of wine.

Be aware that when you order a glass of wine in a bar or restaurant you will often be served a measure larger than 125ml.