A new Gallup Poll has found that more Americans than ever are choosing not to drink alcohol, with only 54% of respondents saying they consume alcohol. This marks the lowest on record in nearly 90 years. The majority now believe moderate alcohol consumption is bad for one’s health, a viewpoint held by Americans for the first time.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that nine body systems are impacted by alcohol use. Current research suggests that even low amounts of alcohol consumption pose health risks. Those who do drink are consuming less, averaging 2.8 drinks per week.
A recent decline in drinking habits among Republicans has been observed, while Democrats’ rates have remained relatively steady. The highest rate of drinkers was recorded between 1974 and 1981, with beer remaining the most preferred alcohol type.
The Gallup survey suggests that Americans are shifting away from heavy drinking, with research supporting the idea that “no amount of alcohol is safe”. This trend cannot be attributed to a shift towards other mood-altering substances like recreational marijuana.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/record-low-number-americans-report-drinking-alcohol-new-teetotalers-explaining-why