It’s Not Just a Diet, Is It? A Guide to Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms/Warning Signs

It’s Not Just a Diet, Is It? A Guide to Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms/Warning Signs

November 29, 2011 | Recovery Connection | Addiction, Mental Health, Support

It’s Not Just a Diet, Is It? A Guide to Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms/Warning Signs

Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms
Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms

The types of eating disorders that people may exhibit can vary depending on a myriad of factors, including: age, personality, and any other mental or physical disorders that may be present. A warped self-image and societal pressures may lure individuals with a low self-esteem into manipulating their body weight through starvation or purging. Others might suffer from emotional eating or lack the ability to maintain a normal eating schedule without resorting to an unhealthy eating regimen.

Whatever the reasons and type of disorder, if you suspect that someone you care about has an eating disorder, it’s very important to be aware of the signs so you can approach your loved one with information to back up your concerns. It’s also important to know how to handle your own feelings about this and how to confront your loved one so they can get the help they need from professionals as well as from you and other friends and family. It is important that the illness be treated in hopes of preventing other clinical disturbances occur, such as depression, substance dependencies or anxiety disorders.

Anorexia Nervosa

Commonly referred to as simply ‘anorexia,’ anorexia nervosa is one of the more well-known eating disorders found in people who have a strong fear of gaining weight or getting fat. This fear doesn’t go away, even when the individual is at a healthy weight or even severely underweight. Because of this they continue to diet and exercise and to lose even more weight. Symptoms of anorexia include not eating proper portions for a person their size, taking weight loss supplements or medications, depression, or being confused much of the time. Most people with anorexia report having unattainable ideals about weight and image, a negative self-image, or having eating problems as a young child. The news and media coverage of celebrities who are underweight being considered beautiful is frequently cited as a cause of some of these problems in some individuals.

Anorexics will display certain signs and symptoms, including excessive weight loss, thinning hair, dry skin, brittle nails, cold or dry skin, low blood pressure, fatigue and osteoporosis. Psychological and behavioral signs may also include: a distorted self-image, a refusal to eat, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, inability to remember events or situations, and depression. Loved ones should watch out if the afflicted skips meals, obsessively weighs themselves, repetitiously cuts foods into tiny pieces, and restricts food intake.

A short hospital stay is usually necessary to begin treatment for someone with anorexia nervosa so they can begin to get proper nutrition and so that any long-term effects of their malnutrition can be evaluated by a physician and treated if necessary. One on one counseling and group therapy will help to keep someone optimistic about their prognosis, and a nutritionist can help monitor progress. Because depression or anxiety is a root cause of many cases of anorexia, an anti-depressant or mood stabilizing prescription drug may be used to help relieve these feelings.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa, or bulimia for short, is very similar to anorexia in that those who suffer from it have a fear of gaining weight. Bulimics are preoccupied by their weight and are constantly thinking about how their actions are affecting it. The classic symptom of bulimia is binging and purging, or eating a lot at once and then trying to get rid of it by throwing up, taking diuretics, or exercising uncontrollably. However, they may also suffer from digestive problems like constipation and gas, dehydration, and depression. Weight can fluctuate quite a bit for someone who is bulimic, but it may not be as severe as with anorexia. Although their weight may seem healthy on the surface, because they are purging their body of needed nutrients they are most likely very malnourished. Being malnourished can cause or contribute to many other health problems that can be very serious if not treated.

If left untreated, bulimia can spiral out of control and eventually lead to severe health problems, such as damaged teeth and gums, abnormal bowl movements, oral sores, dehydration, irregular heartbeat, depression and anxiety. Loved ones should remain vigilant for abnormal behavior in the afflicted if they exhibit signs of persistent worrying over their self-image, eating large amounts of food and then going to the bathroom right afterward, using dietary supplements or laxatives, excessive exercising, and refusing to eat in public or with others.

The first action by a physician will usually be to prescribe an anti-depressant and to monitor any health issues that have come up because of the eating disorder. Counseling, either one on one or in a group, will help the individual to face their disorder and get support for changing their lifestyle. A nutritionist can help them replace old eating habits with new, healthier ones.

  • University of Maryland Medical Center: Bulimia Nervosa – Facts and information on the signs and symptoms of bulimia are available on this website.

  • Langone Medical Center: Bulimia Nervosa An informational hot-spot for all things bulimia, including definition, causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Binge Eating Disorder

Those who binge eat regularly and suffer from the disorder will frequently eat beyond the point of feeling full and sometimes even to the point of physical pain. Binge eating is a cycle of emotional, mental, and physical actions and results that combine to create a situation that can, in some instances, be very dangerous and not just hard to live with. Eating starts as a way to comfort and soothe, but as a sufferer of binge eating gains weight from their constant calorie intake, they begin to suffer from depression about their image and guilt about their actions which often leads them to binge eat more.

Sufferers will display signs and symptoms, such as recurrent binge-eating episodes, eating until uncomfortably full, eating more rapidly than usual, eating alone due to embarrassment, feeling disgusted, depressed, and guilty over their overeating habits. Those close to someone who has a binge eating disorder may notice them eating bigger portions, eating more quickly, or eating more often. Loved ones should watch for signs of rapid weight gain, weight fluctuations, secretive eating habits, hoarding food, night-time snacks, depressed and anxious moods, social withdrawal involving food, and consuming food until uncomfortable and in pain.

Other mental problems are thought to trigger the binge eating cycle in some people, and in some it appears to be random. Once binge eating disorder is diagnosed, a doctor will want to treat the physical problems as a result of the overeating first, since those can be most threatening. A psychiatrist can then help them with therapy, anti-depressants, and even family group communication therapy so that family supports are in place. A nutritionist may be called in to help them notice and change bad eating habits.

Compulsive Overeating

Binging, as found with bulimia but without the purging, is one aspect and symptom of the disorder known as compulsive overeating. During a binge, someone who overeats compulsively will usually have little to no control over how much they are eating at that time and will eat substantially more than someone who does not overeat in the same period of time. This results in becoming overweight and suffering from the various physical and psychological conditions that result from that.

Most people who suffer from compulsive overeating eat in private due to shame so friends and family may not see the eating occurring. However, noticing lots of food wrappers for high-carbohydrate foods, or seeing weight increase quickly, can be signs of an overeating disorder. Depression and anxiety are apparent in nearly all over-eaters, but it’s not completely apparent whether the compulsive overeating or the depression/anxiety came first.

A physician or psychiatrist can put together a treatment plan using family supports, nutritionists, one on one therapy, group sessions, anti-depressants, and medical treatments to cover all aspects of the disorder and the health problems related to it.

  • Compulsive Overeating/Binge Eating – Find out why people often associate compulsive overeating and binge eating.

  • What is Binge Eating Disorder? From UCLA, find helpful information about binge eating in adolescents.

  • Binge Eating Fact Sheet – WomensHealth.gov provides information on the disorder and how it affects women.

Starting the Conversation

It’s important to recognize when there may be an eating disorder present, but it’s even more important to do something about it. However, doing your research on the problem and knowing how to confront your loved one without making them defensive or more ashamed of it is your top priority as a person, or group, that cares about them. The first point to bring across is your concern for them. They need to know that you care and that’s why you are starting this conversation. Offering to support them will go a long way toward helping them to want to help themselves.

Know what resources are available before you start the conversation so that if they are receptive to the talk, you can give them more information about where they might seek help. Be willing to follow through on any promises for support that you give during this conversation, and remember that they may need to just talk to someone to make them understand how they feel, so listening carefully and responding genuinely will be important. If there is somewhere especially comforting or non-threatening for this person, try to have the conversation there, if possible.

Introduction to the 12 Step Program

Introduction to the 12 Step Program

November 29, 2011 | Recovery Connection | Life in Recovery

Introduction to the 12 Step Program

The Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) twelve-step program is the most widely attended self-help program for those who are recovering from alcoholism. 12 Step Program have been used to help people recover from a variety of addictive behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse to compulsive shopping, sex addictions and overeating. There are also 12 step programs for family and friends of addicts which provide the loved ones with support and a program to help them heal and forgive others. AA’s twelve step program has been adapted to address other addictions, and these programs follow the same AA twelve steps for healing. The 12 Step program’s twelve traditions allows for the creation of a community of people with a common problem looking for a solution. The nature of the program provides people with support and creates a spiritual environment which helps one heal. Anyone can use these steps to live a better life.

(The following is a summation of the 12 steps.)

Step 1 – Admit You Are Powerless Over Your Addiction

The first step in overcoming your addiction is to admit that you have a problem. This is important. One must overcome denial to deal with the problem. Admission is the first step to healing. You cannot truly change until you accept that your life has become unmanagable. Acknowledging that you cannot control your addiction and that it controls your life is another important part of this step. This acknowledgement will make it easier to begin the process of change.

Step 2 – Believe That a Power Greater Than You Can Restore You to Sanity

This step acknowledges that there is a power greater than you. To start working Step two in your life, it is suggested that you open yourself to believing you do not control everything. Building faith can help one overcome life stresses without turning to drugs or alcohol. Finding a Higher Power that is loving, caring, and greater than you is a personal process. Surrendering to the power of group or the program will help you stay clean and sober. Your addiction can be arrested with help.

Step 3 – Turn Your Will to the Care of God as You Understand Him

The third step is turning your will over to a Higher Power or to God. Many people struggle with this step because it is difficult to give up control, or they do not understand what defines God or a Higher Power. Willingness to start turning your life over to the care of a Higher Power is an action step. You begin to understand that you cannot overcome addiction by yourself. This willingness opens you up to a spiritual life. Some people look to the God of their youth, others find a new Higher Power or the faith that the 12 Step program will help them handle challenges without drugs or alcohol. Some may confuse a higher power, or spirituality with religion. However, spirituality has to do with ones connection to the universe, not a religion or a particular “God.”

Step 4 – Make an Inventory of Ourselves

The fourth step requires self reflection. A list is made of your resentments, people you have harmed, your character defects (anger, manipulation, jealousy, etc.) and your assets. This step is more than just a list of resentments. It is an open and honest reflection of your past. Old feelings need to be exposed, examined and addressed. This step allows secrets that have kept you sick to be exposed. This step frees you from those secrets, exposes how your defects (desires gone out of control) have warped your behavior. The fourth step list is about awareness and exposure of patterns, it is not about doing anything with the list. There are worksheets available that can help you make this inventory or your sponsor can help you.

Step 5 – Admitting Wrongs to Others

Step five provides the opportunity to acknowledge your past with another. A sponsor, a minister, a counselor, someone who can listen without judgment is usually the person chosen to listen to your fifth step. You will reveal what you wrote for the fourth step, thus bringing you closer to releasing the power of the past over you in the present. This step is truly liberating, fear of this process is typical and should never stop you from proceeding. It is necessary to openly and honestly face the past. In fact, it is listed as one of the promises of the 12 Step program. “We will not regret the past, nor wish to shut the door on it.”

Step 6 – Ready to Have God Remove the Character Defects

This step prepares you to ask God, or a Higher Power to remove your character defects. You understand that you were powerless over your addiction and your extreme behaviors and desires. This step helps you open yourself to change in order to release yourself from your obsessions and defects. It is about becoming ready to change and to do the work that is required. In this step, alternative coping strategies should be explored.

Step 7 – Ask Him to Remove Our Shortcomings

In step seven you actually ask God to remove the wrongs from your character. You come to understand the meaning of humility (not humiliation) and the power in asking for help. Self centered fear has ruled life for most addicts. In this step, you release the fear and move closer to change. You will have experienced moments of peace in the program and desire more. This step helps you grow personally and spiritually. Without seeking to change your defects of character, peace or serenity are unattainable.

Step 8 – Make a List of People Who We Harmed and be Willing to Make Amends

Step eight necessitates taking responsibility for the harm you have caused to others. You make a list of the people you have harmed and what you did to harm them. An honest examination of our behaviors toward others is imperative. This includes physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual damage done to others. You acknowledge the harm others have caused you as well, and begin the practice of forgiveness, for yourself and for others.

Step 9 – Make Amends to Those People

In step nine you will begin to make amends to the people on your list. It is important to recognize when contacting the person would do more harm than good. You may want to discuss this with your sponsor and review the situations so that you make the best decisions for everyone. Sometimes, amends need to be made but at a date in the future. Sometimes amends require changing behavior rather than having a face to face discussion if it will hurt the other person. You need to make restitution some how for the financial wrongs you have done as well. This step further releases us from the bondage of our past freeing us further to live in the present, to change and grow.

Step 10 – Keep Making an Inventory and Admit When We Are Wrong

This step provides you a means of evaluating your behaviors each day. It allows you to continually engage in self reflection, developing the ability to quickly acknowledge your wrongs and fix them. This process helps you continue to live your life without resentment and anger that can lead you back to addictive behaviors.

Step 11 – Practice Prayer and Meditation to Improve Your Relationship with Your Higher Power

It is important to continue to work on your relationship with the God of your understanding. For some people this will mean regularly attending church, for others it means setting aside time each day to meditate or to pray and still for others it is reading program literature. This practice helps you deepen your daily connection to your spiritual well being and to the program’s way of living.

Step 12 – Try to Carry This Message to Others and Continue to Live the Principles

Step 12 allows you to take what you have received from the program and to help another suffering addict.  Sponsorship, helping out at meetings, bringing people to meetings, and service in general are some program ways to practice Step 12.  Helping others outside of the program allows you to practice the principles in everyday living as well.

12 Steps Program: Supportive/Related Links

  • 12 Steps of AA: 12 steps used in Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • 12 Step Facilitation: An overview of the facilitation of the 12 step program.
  • What Are The 12 Steps?: A guide to the 12 step program including information on what each of the steps is.
  • 12 Step Research (PDF): Information on research done on 12 step and other self-help programs.
  • Drug Abuse Support: An introduction to mutual support groups such as the 12 step program for alcohol and drug abuse.
  • Self-Help Information: Some great self-help resources including information on 12 step programs.

Meth Addiction and Recovery – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Meth Addiction and Recovery – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

November 29, 2011 | Recovery Connection | Addiction, Support

Methamphetamine is a stimulant that is abused by many people across the world, especially in the Western, Midwestern and Southwestern United States. Meth can be found in many forms such as a white powder, a chunky crystalline substance or fitted into pills. It is often referred to as crystal meth, crank, ice, glass, and the poor man’s cocaine. It can be smoked, snorted, injected, or ingested. The majority of meth that exists in the United States is produced in black market laboratories using cold medicines and other ingredients.

  • Attorney General

Methamphetamine releases large amounts (600 times the normal amount) of dopamine into the brain, which sparks feelings of intense pleasure. It gives the user a sense of well-being that can last between eight and twelve hours. This phenomenon begins within minutes of taking the drug, so people who feel they need a quick fix may turn to it. Meth is also easy to make with allergy medicines, ammonia, iodine, rubbing alcohol, starter fluid and drain cleaner. Therefore, meth is also cheap and sells for much less than cocaine or heroin. Teens may also be tempted to try meth as they are most inclined to try new experiences. It is estimated that 4% of the U.S. population has tried methamphetamine at least once in their life.

Methamphetamine causes brain damage and symptoms can include extended short-term memory loss, poor judgement and disorganization. A meth addict may be recognized by their dilated pupils, sickly body weight, skin sores and abhorring teeth. The sores are caused by the users themselves, who will scratch and pick at their skin uncontrollably. Perhaps the most noticeable effect of meth use is seen on the teeth. Methamphetamine addicts often have what is called “Meth Mouth,” which includes cracked, yellow and brown teeth, gum disease and lesions on the lip. It also weakens the immune system making it harder to fight off disease and can damage the liver. It can even cause the user to have a stroke.

Traces of methamphetamine can stay in the body for many days or even weeks after a person has stopped using. After this detox period has run its course, symptoms of withdrawal begin. During meth withdrawal, addicts will become sad and depressed. There is even a chance they will experience suicidal thoughts. When someone is going through the withdrawal stage, they need to be monitored at all times. The withdrawal stage can last up to eight months, so be sure to find a number of trustworthy people to keep tabs on the recovering user.

If a recovering addict contemplates suicide, is a threat to others, or if they cannot swallow or stomach food, they need to go to a medical facility. There are a number of medications that can assist with the process of withdrawal, but none are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. When recovering from a meth addiction, it is important to stay away from other drug users and meth itself. Some positive interactions can be found in 12 Step programs and around non drug users. The brains of meth addicts may become more normal within two years after they quit using, but for some, permanent damage remains.

Meth abuse is a serious problem in the United States and in other parts of the world. Even though the addict began using of their own volition, they are incapable of stopping. They need the support of doctors, 12 step programs, counselors, court, and friends and family members to guide them away from the drug and help them through the stages of withdrawal. If someone does not seek help, they are at risk of destroying their body or overdosing. If you suspect someone you know is using methamphetamine, consider the symptoms and help them face their addiction before it is too late.

Recognizing Teen Drug Use

Recognizing Teen Drug Use

November 29, 2011 | Recovery Connection | Addiction, Support

Recognizing Teen Drug Use

Teen Drug Addiction
Teen Drug Abuse

Knowing whether or not your teenager is abusing drugs can be difficult. Some key signs that your child is abusing drugs or alcohol are as followed:

a)      Are they starting to isolate in their bedroom more? Addiction is a disease where the person who is suffering tends to isolate. They don’t want to be around others because they fear someone may find out that they have a substance abuse addiction. Addicts will avoid people that may confront them about their addiction at all costs.

b)      Mood swings go hand in hand with addiction. One moment an addict will be in a good mood, then with the flip of a switch their mood can turn sour. If you have a teen whose behavior and temperament is more erratic than normal it is possible that they are abusing drugs or alcohol.

c)       Drug   abuse can cause changes in physical appearance. Poor hygiene is also common when it comes to addiction. If you notice your teenager changing their appearance then substance abuse is a possibility.

d)      One of the major signs of addiction is a loss of motivation. If grades are slipping or there is less motivation to work or participate in extracurricular activities, drugs and alcohol may be a factor. Drugs and alcohol can quickly hinder a person’s motivation and interests. Addiction will make one focus all their energy on when and where they will get their next fix.

It is safe to say that if you have suspicions that your teenager is abusing drugs or alcohol you should not ignore the signs. The sooner that teen drug addiction is acknowledged and accepted, the better the chance there is at achieving long-term sobriety.

Addiction Recovery – Alcohol Abuse

Addiction Recovery – Alcohol Abuse

November 29, 2011 | Recovery Connection | Addiction, Support

Addiction Recovery – Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol addiction refers to the uncontrolled consumption of alcohol. In many cases, alcohol consumption leads to impulsive behavior and it has negative effects on health and personal relationships. Alcohol addiction is difficult to overcome. It is a neurological disorder that affects the liver, heart, and nervous system. Some people with alcohol addiction refuse to get help for their problems simply because of the stigma attached to alcohol dependence, or because of denial

This list of frequently asked questions will help anyone interested in learning more about alcohol dependency to understand what it is and how to determine if someone has a drinking problem.

Introduction to Alcohol

What is alcohol?

Alcohol is a liquid created by fermenting starches and sugars. The flavor of an alcoholic beverage depends on the fermentation process and the fruits, additives, and vegetables used.

How does alcohol affect a person?

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, which means that it blocks the nerve signals that are trying to reach the brain. This affects hearing, vision, movement, emotions, and perceptions. Drinking too much alcohol can cause slurred speech, loss of coordination, disorientation, confusion, and slowed reaction times. alcohol ingestion also causes relaxation and euphoria, which are the effects the user seeks.

Why do some people react differently to alcohol than others?

Not everyone metabolizes alcohol the same way. Weight, age, race, gender, ethnicity, and fitness level all affect alcohol metabolism. The number of drinks consumed and how quickly they were consumed also determine how alcohol will affect someone. Those who use drugs or have a history of alcohol abuse in their family may react differently to alcohol consumption than those who do not have these problems.

What is a standard drink in the United States?

In the Unites States, one standard drink equals 0.6 oz of pure alcohol (13.7 g). This is equivalent to 1.5 oz of 80-proof liquor, 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 8 oz of malt liquor.

Is beer or wine safer to drink than hard liquor?

Beer and wine are no safer than rum, whiskey, or other types of liquor. One 12-oz. can of beer has just as much alcohol as a shot of liquor or spirits. All of these beverages have the same effect on the human body.

What are caffeinated alcoholic beverages (CABs)?

Caffeinated alcoholic beverages contain caffeine and stimulants in addition to alcohol. They often have a higher percentage of alcohol than that of beer, but many companies do not report how much caffeine is in each drink. The caffeine allows one to consume more alcohol, and can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Drinking Levels

What does moderate drinking mean?

Moderate drinking typically means consuming no more than a single drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men.

Is it safe to drink alcohol and drive?

It isn’t safe to drink alcohol and drive, as alcohol impairs the ability to make quick decisions, alters perception, and reduces reaction time. Those who drink and drive may not be able to accurately judge how far away they are from other vehicles or make good decisions when presented with driving challenges.

What does it mean to be above the legal limit for drinking?

Every state in the U.S. has a blood alcohol concentration limit of 0.08 percent. The blood alcohol concentration is determined by blood or breath tests administered by law enforcement officers or hospital personnel. BAC refers to the blood alcohol level above which someone is subject to legal penalties.

How do I know if it’s okay to drink?

Some people should not drink due to their occupations, age, or health conditions. It isn’t okay for people to drink if they are under the legal drinking age, if they are taking medications that can cause interactions with alcohol, if they expect to drive or participate in activities that need good coordination and attention, or if they have certain health conditions. Children, adolescents, pregnant women, and those who are in recovery for alcoholism or drug addition should not drink.

Excessive Alcohol Use

What is considered “heavy drinking”?

Heavy drinking refers to consuming more than one drink a day for women and more than two drinks a day for men.

What is binge drinking?

Binge drinking can be defined as a dangerous pattern of drinking that causes blood alcohol concentration to exceed 0.08 percent. This means drinking four or more drinks in two hours for females or consuming more than five drinks in two hours for males.

What is the difference between alcoholism and alcohol abuse?

Alcoholism and alcohol abuse have different definitions. Alcoholism, also referred to as alcohol dependence or alcohol addiction, is a neurological disease that causes a strong desire to drink alcohol and makes it difficult to limit drinking. Alcoholics continue to drink even when their drinking causes personal, psychological, or physical problems. Alcohol abuse refers to a recurring drinking pattern that interferes with personal relationships, a person’s health, or a person’s ability to work. Alcohol abuse leads to an inability to fulfill responsibilities, legal problems, drinking while driving, and drinking while operating heavy equipment or machinery.

What does it mean to get drunk?

Getting drunk means drinking too much alcohol and being intoxicated. Intoxication leads to blood vessel dilation, poor judgment, loss of balance, impaired motor skills, and other problems. Excessive drinking also increases the risk of liver disease, stroke and certain cancers.

Drinking Problems

How do I know if I have a drinking problem?

Someone has a drinking problem if drinking alcohol causes relationship problems, difficulty participating in social activities, difficulty managing schoolwork, or similar effects, regardless of how much alcohol is consumed. Drinking to escape problems, drinking alone, and getting into legal trouble because of drinking are also signs of a drinking problem.

What can I do if I or someone I know has a drinking problem?

Someone with a drinking problem should call Recovery Connection at 866-812-8231 for treatment referral. Someone who suspects that a family member or friend has a drinking problem can also call the referral routing service for more information about alcohol problems and a referral to a local specialist. The number is 1-800-662-HELP.

What health problems are associated with excessive alcohol use?

Excessive alcohol use increases the risk for cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver. It also increases the risk for liver disease and certain types of cancer. Drinking alcohol excessively can erode away the lining of the esophagus, causing heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux, and ulcers. Too much alcohol can also lead to malabsorption syndrome, heart damage, shortness of breath, reduced hemoglobin levels, sexual dysfunction, nerve damage, and muscle damage.

Special Populations

I’m young; is drinking bad for my health?

Yes. Studies show that young people who drink have an increased risk for injuries and death. Those who drink alcohol prior to the age of 15 have a four times greater chance of developing alcohol dependency. Alcohol consumption also increases the risk of suicide, poor school performance, and engaging in risky sexual behaviors.

Is it okay to drink when pregnant?

It is not safe to drink any amount of alcohol during pregnancy, as alcohol can affect fetal development. Even women who are considering getting pregnant should avoid drinking. Drinking during pregnancy is linked to fetal alcohol syndrome and birth defects.

Alcohol Abuse Information