Alcohol and Health: How Much Is Too Much?

Canada\'s updated guidance on alcohol and health has shifted recommended limits significantly. The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) released new guidelines in 2023 stating that no amount of alcohol is truly safe. The updated risk levels are: 0 drinks per week (no risk), 1 to 2 drinks per week (low risk), 3 to 6 drinks per week (moderate risk - increased risk of breast, colon, and other cancers), and 7 or more drinks per week (increasingly high risk). This is a significant change from previous guidelines that recommended up to 10 drinks per week for women and 15 for men. Health risks associated with alcohol include seven types of cancer (including breast, colorectal, liver, and oral), liver disease, cardiovascular problems (previous \"heart-protective\" claims for moderate drinking have been largely debunked), mental health impact (alcohol is a depressant and worsens anxiety and depression), and impaired sleep quality. If you want to reduce your consumption, strategies include tracking your drinks, setting specific limits, alternating alcoholic drinks with water, exploring non-alcoholic alternatives, and seeking support from your physician if needed. A physician can discuss your alcohol use and recommend resources in a confidential setting. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.