Recent findings corroborate a link between low doses of alcohol and neuronal changes that effect learning and memory. The new knowledge moves the threshold for alcohol-induced abnormalities downward and sets the Surgeon General's advice on firmer scientific ground. Experts say Abstain. Small amounts are critical for some individual women due to reduced ability to metabolize alcohol. Small amounts are critical to some infants due to genetic risk.
Small amounts are critical at particular points in fetal development.
Anything less that a recommendation of abstinence invites broad and potentially problematic interpretation by those most at risk. Adults underestimate the risk of alcohol in pregnancy, particularly moderate to heavy drinkers. Consumers underestimate risk. To investigate these last two claims we turned to the health education literature. The findings are in line with other reports from the US and Canada.