Statistics show that 13% of women and 27% of men drink more than the recommended amounts.

Drinking too much alcohol raises blood pressure. Binge drinking (drinking more than six units in six hours) is particularly dangerous as it can cause blood pressure to soar. There's nothing wrong with an occasional drink. In moderation it can even do you good!

Follow these guidelines to make sure you drink sensibly:

• Men should not regularly drink more than three to four units a day
• Women should not regularly drink more than two to three units a day
• After an episode of heavy drinking it is advisable not to drink for 48 hours to allow the body to recover
• Pregnant women, or women trying to conceive, should avoid drinking alcohol. If you are pregnantand you do choose to drink,
to protect the baby, they shouldn't drink more than one to two units once or twice a week, and should not get drunk
• Don't drink every day. Try to have a few alcohol-free days each week