The debate over moderate drinking and its health implications continues to stir discussions among scientists, medical professionals, and the public. Recent findings by the Interagency Coordinating Committee for the Prevention of Underage Drinking highlight potential risks associated with daily alcohol consumption, including an increased likelihood of developing esophageal and oral cancers and liver cirrhosis. While a single drink is defined as a 12-ounce beer, a 6-ounce glass of wine, 8 ounces of malt liquor, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor, the recommended weekly limits stand at seven drinks for women and 14 for men. Despite these guidelines, research on moderate drinking remains contradictory, with some studies suggesting benefits and others pointing to potential harm.
Elizabeth Kovacs, PhD, a professor of surgery at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, suggests that occasional drinking may not significantly impact overall health. However, Daniel Schatz, MD, the medical director of substance use disorder services at NYC Health + Hospitals, advises against habitual drinking due to its potential dangers. These conflicting perspectives add complexity to understanding alcohol's impact on health.
Research indicates that drinking can damage DNA, potentially leading to cancer. Acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, can accumulate in the body and harm DNA integrity. A study revealed that daily drinkers face a 5% higher risk of breast cancer, a 30% increase in oral cavity and pharynx cancers, and a 17% rise in esophageal cancer risk. Conversely, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found that moderate drinking could be linked to fewer heart attack and stroke deaths.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines moderate drinking as one drink per day or fewer for biological women and two or fewer for men. Yet, drinking is associated with higher mortality from seven types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. Interestingly, a 2013 study found that those who consume up to one daily drink have a lower cancer risk than those who abstain completely.
Fatty liver disease is another concern related to alcohol consumption but can be reversed through lifestyle changes such as abstaining from alcohol, regular exercise, and a healthy diet. Regular drinking might also lead to unhealthy habits like weight gain and reduced physical activity.
Steve Nissen, MD, emphasizes the importance of understanding the amount of alcohol consumed.
“It’s all about the amount of alcohol you’re having.” – Steve Nissen, MD
He warns that without clarity on this aspect, contradictory studies will continue to emerge.
“Without that, you’re going to have all these contradictory studies coming out.” – Steve Nissen, MD
Elizabeth Kovacs highlights the direct effects of alcohol on DNA.
“One of the most direct effects alcohol can have is it can cause damage to DNA.” – Elizabeth Kovacs, PhD
She differentiates between occasional and regular drinking.
“Doing it once in a while is very different from drinking regularly.” – Elizabeth Kovacs, PhD
Daniel Schatz cautions against assuming health benefits from alcohol consumption.
“If you’re drinking, don’t think it’s because of a health benefit.” – Daniel Schatz, MD
He advises moderation if one chooses to drink for enjoyment or relaxation.
“If you like the taste or it relaxes you—OK,” – Daniel Schatz, MD
Yet he warns of potential harm even from moderate amounts.
“Just know that even moderate amounts of alcohol can be harmful.” – Daniel Schatz, MD
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