9 ways to cut down on drinking

Whether you're drinking too much or too often, or simply decided to give alcohol up as a resolution, drinking alcohol to excess is a habit that some people may want to better control.

Experts at the Harvard Medical School suggests several tips to curb drinking:

• Make a list of reasons to limit drinking.
• Stick to a limit on how much you will drink.
• Keep a diary of your drinking.
• Don't keep alcohol at home.
• Drink slowly, and never on an empty stomach.
• Choose alcohol-free days.
• Practice ways to say "no" to peer pressure.
• Keep busy with hobbies and other activities.
• Ask for support from friends and loved ones.

Experts strongly encourage checking with your doctor first, especially if you seem dependent on alcohol.

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