The NHS has launched a free iPhone app to let people keep track of how much alcohol they are drinking.
Drinkers will be able to keep track of their units with a new iphone app launched by the Department of Health Photo: PAUL GROVER
The new application was launched by Gillian Merron, public health minister, as the festive party season gets under way to help people keep track of their alcohol consumption.
The device which can be downloaded onto smart phones like the iPhone, will allow users to see how many units of alcohol there are in their drink, keep a running total of their consumption and get personalised feedback on their drinking habits.
Studies have shown that people underestimate how much alcohol they have drunk on a night out and may exceed the safe limits without realizing it.
Recommended limits are two to three units a day for women - the equivalent of a medium to a large glass of wine - and three to four a day for men - a large glass to a glass and a half, or two pints - with at least two alcohol-free days a week.
Because of the increasing strength of alcoholic drinks and the trend for larger measures, one large glass of wine now counts as three units, a medium glass as two and a small glass as one-and-a-half.
Research earlier this year by Government statisticians showed more than 7 million middle-class drinkers are putting their health at risk by enjoying evenings at home with a bottle of wine.
Public Health Minister, Gillian Merron said: “It is all too easy to lose track of how much you drink. So as the festive parties start to build up, this innovative tool will help people keep tabs on their drinking – wherever they are.
“It’s one of many ways the Government is helping people to understand how much they are drinking. Sticking within the NHS recommended limits means you reduce the risk of serious conditions such as mouth cancer and strokes.”
Chris Sorek, Chief Executive of Drinkaware, said: “Efforts to help people keep track of how much they’re drinking over the festive season and throughout the year are a good idea. Trying to stick within the daily unit guidelines will help people avoid the January slump and the long term health implications associated with drinking too much alcohol.”
The app is available from iTunes and www.nhs.uk and people who do not have a smart phone can text the word UNIT to 64746 and receive information on the NHS Choices alcohol unit calculator.
The application can be found at:http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/NHSAlcoholtracker.aspx
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