Alcohol Units Calculator
Calculate UK alcohol units for any drink. Track weekly units against CMO low-risk guidelines. Understand calorie content and health context. Free.
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Disclaimer: Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance.
UK Unit Formula
Units = (Volume in ml × ABV%) ÷ 1,000. One unit = 10ml (8g) of pure alcohol. Alcohol itself contains 7 kcal per gram, plus drinks often contain carbohydrate calories from sugars and mixers. A pint of 5% lager contains approximately 215 kcal — similar to a packet of crisps.
CMO Low-Risk Guidelines
The UK Chief Medical Officers (CMO) recommend no more than 14 units per week for both men and women, spread across at least 3 days. The CMO also advises having several alcohol-free days each week. There is no "safe" level of alcohol — any amount carries some health risk. The 14-unit guideline represents a level where risk is assessed as low, not zero.
FAQs
What is an alcohol unit?
10ml (8g) of pure alcohol. Formula: ml × ABV% ÷ 1,000. Pint 4% beer = 2.3 units. 175ml wine 13% = 2.3 units. 25ml spirits 40% = 1 unit.
What are the low-risk guidelines?
UK CMO: maximum 14 units/week for men and women, spread over 3+ days. No level of alcohol is entirely risk-free.