If you drink it is best to do so ONLY in moderation. This means no more than one beer, one glass of wine, or one shot of liquor per day if you are a woman and no more than two if you are a man. Drinking more than that can substantially harm your health. Long-term or excessive use of alcohol may lead to alcoholism. And "problem drinking" (such as drinking and driving) is very risky and can endanger you and others.

HARMFUL EFFECTS DURING PREGNANCY

For the safety of your baby, NEVER DRINK ALCOHOL DURING PREGNANCY. Alcohol in the bloodstream of the mother crosses the placenta and reaches the fetus. This can cause a condition called fetal alcohol syndrome -- growth failure after birth, reduced IQ, and malformed facial features.

RESPONSIBLE DRINKING

Here are some ways to drink responsibly, assuming that you DO NOT have a drinking problem:

• ONLY drink if you are of legal age to do so.
• NEVER drink alcohol and drive a car. Have someone designated to drive if you're going to drink, or plan an alternative way home, such as a taxi or bus.
• DO NOT drink on an empty stomach. Snack before and during alcohol consumption.
• Drink slowly to avoid becoming intoxicated and ONLY in moderation.
• If you are take medication, including over-the-counter medications, check with your pharmacist before drinking alcohol. Alcohol can intensify the effects of many medications and drugs and can interact with others, making them ineffective.
• DO NOT drink at all if you have a history of alcohol abuse.