A little booze, a lot of benefits?

Written By: Arham Ali Ali

Graphics by: Emily Wang

Can alcohol be good for you? Can a drink or two act as a health elixir? In fact, it does have some benefits. While excessive drinking is harmful, moderate alcohol consumption has been linked to certain health benefits. Before we proceed further, let’s define what moderate really means. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [3], moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men; a standard drink includes 12 oz of beer (5% alcohol), 5 oz of wine (12%), or 1.5 oz of spirits (40%)[3]. 

Current research indicates that there is an inverse association between light/moderate drinking and the risk of heart attack, ischemic stroke, peripheral vascular disease, sudden cardiac death, and other cardiovascular benefits1. Likewise, findings by the Mayo Clinic also indicate that light/moderate drinking has additionally been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, dementia and gallstones [4].

Apart from the physiological benefits, drinking responsibly and moderately may also improve an individual’s mental health. A study done by Dr. Cynthia Baum-Baicker of the University of Pennsylvania highlights that moderate alcohol intake promotes relaxation and lowers stress levels, among other expressive expressions, such as happiness, euphoria, conviviality and pleasant and carefree feelings [2]. It was concluded that light to moderate drinking improves the psychological well-being of individuals [2]. 

To sum up, light to moderate drinking definitely has its own array of benefits, both physiological and psychological. Well, it isn’t encouraged to drink, and heavy drinking can lead to a plethora of effects. However, if you do enjoy a casual drink, science says that you’ll be just fine!

As a side note, any amount of alcohol consumption carries potential risks, so it is important to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks and consult with healthcare professionals to make an informed decision. This article does not encourage alcohol consumption in any way but is simply intended to share knowledge. Health benefits like moderate drinking can often be achieved through exercise, a balanced diet, and other lifestyle choices [1]. 

References:

1. Alcohol: Balancing Risks and Benefits. The Nutrition Source. Published September 18, 2012. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/healthy-drinks/drinks-to-consume-in-moderation/alcohol-full-story/#possible_health_benefits

2. Baum-Baicker C. The psychological benefits of moderate alcohol consumption: a review of the literature. Drug and alcohol dependence. 1985;15(4):305-322. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/0376-8716(85)90008-0

3. CDC. About Moderate Alcohol Use. Alcohol Use. Published 2024. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/about-alcohol-use/moderate-alcohol-use.html

4. Pronschinske J. Balancing the risks, benefits of alcohol. Mayo Clinic Health System. Published October 12, 2021. Accessed March 19, 2025. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/balancing-the-risks-benefits-of-alcohol?utm_source=chatgpt.com