It's not the same to drink as it is to abuse: towards a culture of moderation and responsibility

In recent years, especially among younger generations, mindful drinking has gained momentum, a movement that encourages consuming alcohol with greater awareness: choosing what, why, and how much we drink, without excess overshadowing the celebration. However, talking about mindful drinking not only implies drinking less but also understanding what it means to do so in moderation. And that concept, while it seems simple, is much more relevant than we think.

The risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption make it necessary to establish clear recommendations. Among them, moderate consumption, which, although it may seem obvious, faces significant challenges in practice. Moderation, and therefore moderate alcohol consumption, does not have the same meaning in all contexts; drinking during a family meal is not the same as at a youth party or a reunion with friends. Even the type of drink influences this; having a glass of wine or a beer is not perceived the same way as having several drinks with a high alcohol content. In reality, moderation is a complex concept, deeply conditioned by social and cultural factors.

Alcoholic beverages have been present in all cultures, whether as part of celebrations, gastronomic experiences, or rituals. Their place in social life is undeniable. And it is important that this presence is accompanied by actions that prevent the risks of harmful consumption. Today, we live in constant tension between moderation and excess, between enjoyment and limits. While toasts are raised to celebrate achievements, silence is kept for those who have lost control.

The World Health Organization seeks to reduce harmful alcohol consumption. Therefore, public health guidelines in various countries make practical recommendations. In general, it is suggested to have up to one drink daily for women and two for men: 340 ml of beer or 140 ml of wine. In the United Kingdom, for example, it is advised not to exceed 14 units per week, spread over several days, which is between 4 and 7 drinks in total.

These recommendations are aimed at those who already consume alcohol. They do not invite starting but rather doing so in an informed manner. The purpose is for moderation and the prevention of harmful consumption to be integrated into social norms and everyday life, as a way to prevent harm and promote self-care.

This approach is even more relevant for new generations. For adolescents, consumption should be zero. Not out of rigidity, but for health, as they are in full physical and emotional development, and the risks are greater. Social pressure at these ages is strong, and alcohol consumption is often associated with experimenting, belonging, and challenging. Moreover, permissiveness impacts not only adolescents but also their parents, who face the dilemma of setting limits or allowing consumption so their children do not feel excluded.

In light of this scenario, educational efforts are essential, as they show the risks, provide tools to face social pressure, and encourage decisions in line with the maturity of each stage. Educating about moderate alcohol consumption does not only mean explaining “how much one can drink,” but teaching to decide responsibly. After all, social norms are learned and reinforced in everyday interactions.

Promoting moderate consumption is not an individual task; it involves everyone—people, institutions, businesses. It is not about denying enjoyment but about preventing it from leading to harm. The key is not to prohibit but to avoid harmful consumption and integrate moderation as part of a socially rich and healthy life.