2. Alcohol and Exercise What are the effects of alcohol on exercise and fitness? What are the recommended guidelines for alcohol consumption How to calculate units How to cut down

3. More people are taking part in sport NHS figures show that ½ of those who drank exceeded the lower risk guidelines

4. Effects of alcohol on exercise and fitness Drinking alcohol post exercise can undo all the good work you have done Alcohol can reduce the amount of fat you are able to burn by exercising Alcohol gets in the way of the nutritional benefits of the healthy meals you eat

5. Alcohol is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration especially if combined with sweating When your body is breaking down alcohol it can’t produce as much glucose so you will have less energy Coordination, dexterity, concentration and reactions could be adversely affected also Long term effects of drinking above the recommended guidelines include heart disease, liver disease and cancer

6. Daily unit guidelines Government recommended daily alcohol intake: 2-3 units per day for women 3-4 units per day for men How to calculate a unit Volume mls /1000x % abv Eg a 175 ml glass of 13% wine = 175/1000x13=2.275units

7. How to cut down Drinking above the recommended lower risk guidelines can result in the body building up a tolerance Taking days off from drinking can lower or ‘reset’ your tolerance, so it becomes easier to cut back For more facts and to assess your drinking drinkaware.co.uk – understanding your drinking