A new report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine suggests that moderate drinkers may live longer and have healthier hearts than teetotalers. The findings, which will inform the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, contradict previous guidelines stating that no amount of alcohol is safe.
According to the meta-analysis, moderate drinking was associated with a 16% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who never drank. However, the report also highlights the risks of excessive drinking, including increased cancer risk and liver disease.
The study defined “moderate drinking” as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. The findings show that moderate drinking is linked to lower cardiovascular disease mortality, but there was insufficient evidence to determine its impact on weight changes or neurocognitive issues like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
The report’s lead author emphasized that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption, as the risk starts from the first drop of any alcoholic beverage. The study’s conclusion contradicts previous guidelines stating that moderate drinking has health benefits.
The report’s findings will likely spark debate, but they provide valuable insights into the relationship between moderate drinking and various health outcomes.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/moderate-drinkers-may-live-longer-than-teetotalers-claims-a-study/articleshow/116499536.cms