Expert profile
Dr. David Nutt
Professor and psychiatrist
Alcohol and drug harm
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53 minAnalysed
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About the expert
Focus: Alcohol harm and rational drug use
A psychiatrist who studies how alcohol and other drugs affect the body and society. He describes alcohol as the most harmful drug once health effects and social costs are counted together. He argues for tracking your own intake rather than following fixed rules. He also invented and sells Sentia, a herbal drink marketed as an alcohol alternative, which is worth knowing when weighing his recommendations.
Expert discussions with Dr. David Nutt
How much alcohol is actually safe to drink?
Alcohol is toxic to cells, which is why it can damage tissue from the mouth down. The harm also rises faster than the amount you drink, so doubling your intake more than doubles the risk. The amount that feels normal is often well past the guidelines.