How to reduce dependency on alcohol

Alcohol is a universal beverage, but the rate of consumption in Africa is particularly on the high side and much higher in Nigeria.

Citing the World Health Organisation Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health Data, Nigeria has the highest annual alcohol consumption on the continent, measured by the amount of pure ethyl alcohol consumed per capita. Nigerian adults consume up to 12.3 litres of pure alcohol per annum, equivalent to 300 litres of beer with an alcohol content of five per cent.

Beer makes up just 16% of alcohol consumption in Nigeria, while other drinks make up 84% due to the high popularity of home-brewed beverages in the country.

In a research conducted by a Nigerian-based marketing research company, MRIC, in November 2015, the report indicated high alcohol among Nigerians. The report further stated that most alcohol consumers in the country are now switching to herbal mixed alcoholic drinks.

This trend saw a rise in the alcoholic brand such Alomo Bitters, Baby Okwu, Ace Root, Kick and Start, Origin, andmany other brands in this category.

At present, there are over 8 functional breweries in Nigeria with a cumulative production capacity of over 17.72 million hl/a majority. The majority of these breweries are situated in Southern part of Nigeria.

Overcoming an addiction to alcohol can be a long and bumpy road, and at times, it may even feel impossible. But it’s not. Whether you want to quit drinking altogether or cut down to healthier levels,

the following guidelines can help you reduce your dependency on alcohol and get started on the road to recovery:

•Establish clear, more specific and realistic drinking goals.

•Get rid of temptations. Try to limit or remove alcoholic drinks from your home and office

•Avoid bad influences. Distance yourself from people who don’t support your efforts to stop drinking or respect the limits you’ve set.

•Choose a limit for how much you will drink and try to schedule some alcohol-free days each week. Put it where you can see it, could be on your refrigerator or bathroom mirror.

•Take breaks from alcohol. Pick a day or two each week when you will not drink at all. Then, try to stop drinking for one week. Think about how you feel physically and emotionally on these days. When you succeed and feel better, you may find it easier to cut down for good.

Sources

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/

https://answersafrica.com/these10-african-countries-bath-in-alcohol-the-list-does-not-contain-what-you-think.html

https://www.pulse.ng/bi/lifestyle/beer-consumption-nigeria-is-the-highest-alcohol-drinking-country-in-africa-id6667060.html

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