When tracking alcohol consumption, why is counting drinks insufficient?

Counting drinks is insufficient when tracking alcohol consumption because different drinks can vary in size and strength. This variability means that a standard drink is not truly standard across different types of alcoholic beverages. For example, a typical serving of beer may not have the same amount of alcohol as a mixed drink or a glass of wine.

Beer typically contains less alcohol by volume (ABV) than most spirits, while wine has a moderate ABV that often sits between the two. Additionally, cocktails can contain multiple types of alcohol and mixers that further complicate dosage. Because of these differences, accurately assessing alcohol consumption requires a more nuanced approach than simply counting the number of drinks consumed, as the total alcohol intake can vary significantly depending on the type and amount of beverage. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective tracking and ensuring safe consumption habits.