Our advanced Alcohol Unit Calculator helps you understand exactly how many units are in your drinks. Optimized for Google, this tool provides instant, accurate calculations for responsible drinkers, healthcare professionals, and anyone aiming for a healthy lifestyle.
Calculate Alcohol Units
Select your drink type and enter details to calculate alcohol units instantly:
Privacy Guaranteed: All calculations happen in your browser. No data is stored or sent to any server.
How to Use the Alcohol Unit Calculator
Track your alcohol consumption in three simple steps:
Choose from common categories or use ‘Custom’ for mixed drinks.
Specify the volume (ml) and alcohol percentage (ABV).
See the alcohol units, calories, and other important metrics.
Why Track Alcohol Units?
Understanding alcohol units helps you make informed decisions. Here’s why it matters:
Health Awareness
Stay within recommended limits for better long-term health.
Responsible Driving
Estimate when it’s safe to drive after drinking.
Fitness Goals
Monitor alcohol calories that can impact weight and fitness.
The Health Risks of Excessive Drinking
Regularly drinking more than the recommended 14 units per week can lead to serious long-term health problems. Understanding these risks is a powerful motivator for moderation.
- Liver Disease: Can lead to alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
- Heart Problems: Can cause high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and weakened heart muscle.
- Increased Cancer Risk: Linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, liver, colon, and breast.
- Mental Health Issues: Can worsen conditions like depression and anxiety and interfere with sleep.
- Weight Gain & Obesity: Alcoholic drinks are often high in “empty” calories.
Standard Drink Sizes: A Global View
A “standard drink” varies significantly between countries. This calculator uses the UK standard. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Country | Standard Drink (Grams of Alcohol) | Equivalent To (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 8 grams | A single 25ml shot of 40% spirits. |
| United States | 14 grams | A 12 oz (355ml) regular beer. |
| Australia | 10 grams | A 285ml “pot” of 4.8% beer. |
| Japan | 20 grams | A large 500ml can of 5% beer. |
Practical Tips for Cutting Down
Reducing your alcohol intake can make a big difference. Try these small changes:
Have Drink-Free Days
Aim for several days each week without alcohol to give your body a rest.
Try Alternatives
Explore the growing market of alcohol-free beers, wines, and spirits.
Stay Hydrated
Alternate alcoholic drinks with a glass of water to drink less and avoid hangovers.