Do you know what a standard drink looks like?

In small amounts, alcohol of any kind increases the good cholesterol in your blood. Red wine in particular has been linked to reduced blood pressure and a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. But just as there are benefits associated with drinking small amounts of alcohol, there are also drawbacks.

Drinking one standard drink per day on a regular basis can raise the risk of breast cancer in women. And for both men and women, regular drinking damages organs and makes it harder for the body to maintain a healthy weight.

Most people come unstuck when pouring. A standard drink contains 10 grams of alcohol. As to how far to fill a glass depends on whether you’re drinking beer, wine or spirits.

Download the Australian Government Department of Health 'Standard drink guide' for beer, wine, and spirits here.

There is no reason why you can’t enjoy a standard drink or two, but not every night.

Keep your health the best it can be for you.