Why We Drink Too Much

The Hidden Science of Just One More
An insightful exploration of our complex relationship with alcohol through a blend of wit, wisdom and rigorous science.

The revolutionary book that will change how you think about drinking forever – whether you're tackling Dry January, looking for a permanent shift or simply curious.

‘Compelling and fascinating . A must-read’ – Andrew Jenkinson, Sunday Times bestselling author of Why We Eat (Too Much)

We drink to celebrate, to de-stress and to fit in. We barely question it – until we wake up with that vague sense of dread and ask, 'Why me?' If you are a perfectly rational person in all other areas of your life, but too often find that one glass of wine turns into a bottle, it isn't a moral failing or a lack of character. It's biology.

In Why We Drink Too Much, leading surgeon and clinical researcher Dr Charles Knowles combines jaw-dropping science with his own harrowing journey as a recovering alcoholic to reveal what is really happening in our brains. With sharp wit and professional rigour, he unpacks:

• The Reward System: Why alcohol hijacks our survival instincts and overrides our ability to choose.
• The ‘Drinking Champion’ Phenotype: Why some of us are genetically primed to feel more reward from every sip.
• A 12-Principle Blueprint: A science-backed guide to reclaiming your choice and moving toward long-term neutrality or sobriety.

Whether you are ‘sober curious,’ a ‘grey area’ drinker, or someone who has visited the edge and didn’t like the view, Dr Knowles offers a smart, accessible guide to reclaiming your choice.

'Fascinating' – Robin Ince
'Illuminating and beautifully written.' – Clare Pooley, bestselling author of The Sober Diaries
'Openhearted [and] useful. Knowles blends science and memoir to persuade readers to cut down on alcohol' – The New York Times

UK Delivery:

• Free delivery on all orders of £10 or more.
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• All orders are shipped from our warehouse in Northampton, UK within 48 hours of receipt during working hours.
• UK mainland orders typically arrive within 3-5 working days via Royal Mail 2nd Class.
• International estimated delivery times:
• Europe & Channel Islands: 7 to 10 working days
• USA: 7 to 15 working days
• Rest of the World: 9 to 21 working days

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