Back to TTM ResultsMost spouses drank three times a week or less, and consumed an average of 1-2 drinks each time. Based on a recent national survey of Canadians’ use of alcohol and drugs, 74.2% of women and 53.4% of men have 1-2 drinks per typical drinking day. Men (23.2%) were more likely to report having 5 or more drinks per typical drinking day, but only 8.8% of women reported drinking a similar amount (Health Canada, 2008). Although the men in our study drink slightly more than the national average, wives’ drinking habits were consistent with national averages.
The majority of spouses drank less than 10 caffeinated beverages per week, which is well within Health Canada Guidelines. Caffeine can have some adverse effects, for example, on calcium balance, bone health, and reproduction (e.g., birth weights, fertility). Health Canada recommends a maximum daily caffeine intake of 400 mg, which is equivalent to three 237 ml (8 oz) cups of coffee. For women of childbearing age, Health Canada recommends no more than 300 mg of caffeine per day, which is equivalent to about two 8 oz cups of coffee.