Drinking one glass of wine a day has long been thought to be good for your health, especially in a country like France where wine is a big part of the culture. However, a new study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs suggests that this idea may not be as scientifically sound as previously believed. Previous studies linking moderate alcohol consumption, typically wine, to health benefits have been criticized for only focusing on older individuals and not taking into account lifetime drinking habits. Moderate drinkers were often compared to abstainers or occasional drinkers, including older individuals who stopped drinking due to health issues.
In this new study, researchers identified 107 published studies that examined the link between alcohol consumption and longevity. When the data was collected and combined, it was found that light to moderate drinkers (those who drank between one glass per week and two glasses per day) had a 14% lower risk of death compared to abstainers. However, more in-depth research revealed that studies including younger individuals (with an average age of 55 at the start of the study) and ensuring that former drinkers and occasional drinkers were not considered abstainers did not find a link between moderate alcohol consumption and longer life.
On the other hand, studies of «lower quality» (involving older participants, no distinction between former drinkers and long-term abstainers) did establish a link between moderate alcohol consumption and greater longevity. This suggests that the evidence may not be conclusive.
In a statement commenting on the study, co-author Tim Stockwell mentioned the «French paradox» as an example. This refers to the idea, popularized in the 1990s, that red wine may explain why the French have relatively low rates of cardiovascular disease despite a diet rich in fatty foods. Stockwell noted that the perception of alcohol as a miracle elixir still persists in the collective imagination, but other factors such as dietary habits, lifestyle, and overall food quality could also play a role in health outcomes.
Stockwell also emphasized that there is no completely «safe» level of alcohol consumption, as alcohol is toxic even at low doses. This reinforces the importance of considering individual health factors and making informed choices about alcohol consumption. While the idea of a daily glass of wine may be appealing, it’s essential to approach alcohol consumption with caution and moderation to prioritize overall health and well-being.