Official drinking guidelines are issued by governments and public health entities to advise on levels of alcohol consumption considered 'safe', 'responsible,' or 'low risk'. They do not apply to those under the legal drinking age or to pregnant women. Those on medication or with a history of illness should consult their general practitioner for specific advice. It is difficult to lay down strict guidelines as to what constitutes 'moderate consumption' - it will depend on your age, size, sex and health, how and when you consume alcohol, as both the speed of consumption and whether you're eating will effect how alcohol is absorbed by the body.