The Vice-O-Meter: Dr. Oz Helps You Kick Your Worst Habits
Just how bad is it to eat a whole bag of chips in one sitting? Or sip more than one glass of wine a day? Here, a ranking of the things we do when we think no one's looking and how to stop.
By Dr. Mehmet Oz
Consuming More than One Drink a Day
Vice-O-Meter: 6
The Harm:
It's true that a daily dose of booze can do a body good. But alcohol, of course, is a poison as well as a tonic, and after one serving (12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor), the cons can start to outweigh the pros. Drinking is linked to a number of cancers, as well as heart and liver damage.
The Cure:
Sip on your second- or third-choice beverage rather than your absolute favorite. This will make it easier to cut yourself off after one. If you're drinking wine, use a glass meant for white—they're usually smaller and can help you avoid overpouring.
The Harm:
It's true that a daily dose of booze can do a body good. But alcohol, of course, is a poison as well as a tonic, and after one serving (12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor), the cons can start to outweigh the pros. Drinking is linked to a number of cancers, as well as heart and liver damage.
The Cure:
Sip on your second- or third-choice beverage rather than your absolute favorite. This will make it easier to cut yourself off after one. If you're drinking wine, use a glass meant for white—they're usually smaller and can help you avoid overpouring.
From the August 2012 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.