Why we're cutting back on booze

Is this a New Year’s resolution you could stick to?

- LYNSEY CLARKE

Most middle-aged drinkers admit they should reduce their intake – but less than half actually try to cut down. Two women who go over the 14-unit weekly guideline try a different method each and tell Woman’s Own how they did...

‘I switched to non-alcoholic drinks’

Hannah Verdier, 47, lives in Sydenham, southeast London, and is mum to daughters, Mimi, 10, and Evie, seven. In a typical week, the single copywriter drinks around 38 units. By switching wine for non-alcoholic drinks, she cut down to just eight units in a week.

I’m a single parent, so during the week friends tend to come to me, as it’s easier for babysitting. We’ll often crack open a bottle of wine to share and sometimes I’ll have a glass or two while I cook.