๐Ÿบ Pure Alcohol Calculator

ml
%
Pure alcohol20.0 g
Drink units1.0 units
Est. hours to metabolize3.1 hours

Enter the volume and alcohol by volume (ABV%) of your drink to estimate the pure alcohol content in grams, how many "drink units" that represents, and roughly how long it takes your body to process it. Useful for keeping an objective eye on your own drinking or pacing yourself to a moderate amount.

How to use

  1. Enter the volume you drank (or plan to drink).
  2. Enter the ABV%, or pick a quick preset like beer or wine.
  3. See the pure alcohol content, drink units, and estimated hours to metabolize it.

FAQ

How is pure alcohol content calculated?

We use the formula: volume(ml) x (ABV/100) x 0.8, where 0.8g/ml is the approximate density of ethanol. For example, 500ml of 5% beer contains about 20g of pure alcohol.

What is a "drink unit"?

In Japan, 1 unit is commonly defined as 20g of pure alcohol, a reference amount used in public health guidance.

Is the metabolism time estimate accurate?

This is a rough estimate only, based on an average processing rate of about 6.5g of alcohol per hour. Actual metabolism varies significantly by body weight, sex, liver function, food intake, and other individual factors. This tool is not medical advice, and should not be used to judge fitness to drive.

Can I total up multiple drinks?

Enter the volume and ABV for each drink to check its pure alcohol content, then add them together to get a rough total for the day.

What counts as moderate drinking?

Japan's health ministry guidance flags roughly 40g/day of pure alcohol for men and 20g/day for women as a threshold associated with higher lifestyle-disease risk. Individual factors vary, so use this only as a reference.