Moderate drinking is defined by the
NIAAA as consuming up to two drinks per day for men and one drink
per day for women and older
adults. While moderate drinking may offer some benefits to some
individuals, drinking at this level poses real risks for others.
For example, women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy,
persons driving or operating heavy machinery, and those taking one
or more of the more than 150 medications that interact with alcohol
should not drink even moderately. Persons who are vulnerable to
developing alcohol dependence should be encouraged to refrain from
alcohol use.
