For centuries, people knew that excessive drinking was bad for you. The short-term effects on cognition and motor function are clear. However, the long-term consequences of abusing alcohol, including liver damage, jaundice, and cancer, have been impossible to ignore.
So, why has there been a widespread belief that moderate drinking might actually be good for you? The French paradox is often cited as the reason. In the 1990s, French scientist Serge Renaud found that the French had low rates of cardiovascular disease due to their healthy Mediterranean diet and “moderate” red wine consumption.
The antioxidants in red wine were thought to reduce cholesterol levels, supporting the claim. However, subsequent studies have cast doubt on this conventional wisdom. New research has warned that no level of alcohol consumption is safe or beneficial.
In reality, moderate drinking is not without risks. The latest public health warnings emphasize that even small amounts can lead to negative consequences. It’s time to reevaluate our understanding of the relationship between wine and overall health.
Source: https://www.vox.com/health/403684/alcohol-drinking-health-effects-science