Some studies associate moderate alcohol intake, one per day, with less risk of heart disease. However there are many effective alternatives to reducing heart disease without the addition of alcohol.

Alcohol is a drug that depresses the brain. We all know the cheeriness that can come with the first drink, but alcohol can actually cause severe depression. Alcohol has no vitamin or mineral content, but plenty of calories.

If you are a heavy drinker, alcohol will be doing damage to parts of the body you cannot see. Some long term effects of drinking include:

• Liver disease

• Obesity

• Depression

• High Blood Pressure

If you have any questions your doctor will happily discuss individual queries regarding lowering the risk of coronary heart disease and especially 'bad' cholesterol.

In recent years the number of people who drink and drive has decreased dramatically with education and legislation. Alcohol is still a major cause of road traffic accidents.

If you are pregnant every time you have an alcoholic drink your baby is getting one too.

Support

If you are concerned about your alcohol intake or that of a relative or friend, the surgery will be able to advise you on a safe course of action.

Call Alcoholics Anonymous Helpline on 0845 769 7555 or visit their website at www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk