Written By Moderate drinking has long been touted as a way to improve your health. From reducing the risk of heart disease to improving cognitive function, many people believe that a drink or two a day can have numerous health benefits. But is this really the case? Recent research suggests that moderate drinking may not be the health boost that many people believe it to be.
Moderate Drinking and Cancer Risk
One of the most concerning health risks associated with moderate drinking is an increased risk of cancer. A study published in the journal Addiction found that even moderate drinking can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and liver cancer. The study found that as many as 1 in 10 cancer cases in women and 1 in 5 cancer cases in men can be attributed to alcohol consumption.
Moderate Drinking and Cardiovascular Health
While moderate drinking has been touted as a way to reduce the risk of heart disease, recent research suggests that this may not be the case. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that even moderate drinking can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that for every 100,000 people who drink one drink a day, there are 1,200 additional cases of cardiovascular disease.
Moderate Drinking and Cognitive Function
Some studies have suggested that moderate drinking may have cognitive benefits, but other research has found that even moderate drinking can impair cognitive function and increase the risk of dementia. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that moderate drinking was associated with a 3 times greater risk of hippocampal atrophy, a form of brain damage that can lead to dementia.
Why Has Moderate Drinking Been Touted as a Health Boost?
So why has moderate drinking been promoted as a health boost for so long? One reason may be that previous research has focused on the potential benefits of moderate drinking, while ignoring the risks. Additionally, alcohol companies have a vested interest in promoting the idea that moderate drinking can be beneficial, as it encourages people to continue drinking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while many people have believed that moderate drinking can have health benefits, recent research suggests that this is not the case. Even moderate drinking can be a health risk, increasing the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive impairment. If you choose to drink, it’s important to be aware of the risks and to drink responsibly.
