Kent's secret drinking problem: find out if you're affected in our online quiz
Published: 10:00, 21 March 2016
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Do you feel like you could really do with a drink after a long day? If you’re not careful, a few glasses most days can quickly add up to a level that will be harming you.
One in five people in Kent are drinking at dangerous levels.
Regularly having a second or third drink most evenings may not only be giving you a fuzzy head the next day but can increase your risk of developing health problems such as cancer, high blood pressure and liver problems.
Since 2002, the number of people in Kent dying from liver disease has risen by 43%. In fact, alcohol costs the health service in Kent an estimated £108 million a year.
So, what can you do? Well, there are lots of simple changes you can make to your lifestyle that can really help.
Swapping every other drink for a soft drink when you’re out, ordering smaller measures, or choosing lower-strength options are all great ways to cut down.
Drinking a pint of water before you start on the beer or wine can really help to avoid drinking alcohol when you’re thirsty.
And when you go out, make sure you set a budget so that you don’t end up drinking more than you intended. That way you’re taking care of yourself and saving money at the same time.
You’ll probably find that these changes soon have a positive impact. Cutting back can help you to feel more rested and improve your energy levels. You’ll be taking in fewer calories too, making it easier to manage your weight.
The good news is you can easily keep track of your drinking by taking the ‘Know Your Score’ quiz.
It’s a quick and easy way to tell if you’re already in the low risk zone or if you need to cut down. Are you interested to know whether you’re drinking over the recommended limits?
Take the quiz here
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Emma Grafton-Williams