Yes, you read that right-benefits. The word of the day is moderation. It is in the fine balance of moderation that the benefits outweigh the risks. Evidence based studies have revealed that there are several positive effects from having 1 serving of alcohol per day, which is considered moderate drinking.
Before you ask, no it doesn't count to save up the whole week and drink all 7 servings in one night! While we're at it, what is considered a serving? Below is an estimation for alcohol content in beer, wine and liquor.
Of course, the rules are different for those with addictive personalities. Gout suffers also have a different outcome. It turns out that alcohol consumption may increase uric acid levels according to an article from Boston University of Medicine on studies of the subject. http://www.bu.edu/alcohol-forum/reviews/
Other studies show that there may be an increase of cancer risk with consumption for those with cancer risks and heavy drinkers. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/alcohol
For those of us who enjoy a glass of wine or a beer on occasion but could just as easily live without it and have no or few predisposing risk factors for disease, there are proven benefits.
Heart Attacks and Stroke
So far, the research has documented that the biggest pro to moderate drinking (especially red wine due to it's antioxidant content) is a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease-heart attack.
Before you ask, no it doesn't count to save up the whole week and drink all 7 servings in one night! While we're at it, what is considered a serving? Below is an estimation for alcohol content in beer, wine and liquor.
Of course, the rules are different for those with addictive personalities. Gout suffers also have a different outcome. It turns out that alcohol consumption may increase uric acid levels according to an article from Boston University of Medicine on studies of the subject. http://www.bu.edu/alcohol-forum/reviews/
Other studies show that there may be an increase of cancer risk with consumption for those with cancer risks and heavy drinkers. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/alcohol
For those of us who enjoy a glass of wine or a beer on occasion but could just as easily live without it and have no or few predisposing risk factors for disease, there are proven benefits.
Heart Attacks and Stroke
So far, the research has documented that the biggest pro to moderate drinking (especially red wine due to it's antioxidant content) is a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease-heart attack.
- raises HDL (good cholesterol)
- acts as blood thinner, aiding in prevention of blockages in arteries
Diabetes
- shows to increase insulin sensitivity
- may lower blood glucose levels overall
Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
- drink per day slow the progression of dementia & deterioration of the brain http://www2.potsdam.edu/hansondj/InTheNews/MedicalReports/Other/20070705130849.html#.UtqsyxAo7IU
- antioxidants in Red Wine protect the brain http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/services_info.php?serviceID=5
- Moderate drinking may actually improve memory http://www2.potsdam.edu/hansondj/HealthIssues/20071025202420.html#.UtquKhAo7IV
Immune System
- acts as anti-inflammatory
- may improve immune response http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270379.php
Mortality Rate
According to a recent article from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation with research conducted by Patrick M. Krueger, PhD, recent findings suggest that mortality rates are lower for moderate drinkers than heavy drinker or non-drinkers
"Prior research has documented that both heavy drinkers and nondrinkers have higher risks of premature death than their peers who drink in moderation."
Bottom Line
What alcohol does to the body-
As with anything in life, the old saying "More is better" is definitely is not true. Excessive drinking can cause higher risk for heart major or even fatal accidents, heart attacks, liver disease, increased risk of cancer, depression and damaged or failed relationships.
Even the Bible speaks of wine intake and the benefits of moderation.
Drink water no longer exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent illnesses. 1 Timothy 5:23 Amplified Bible (wine may have been considered medicinal according to NLT study notes)
And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. – 1 Corinthians 9:25a NKJV
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. – Philippians 4:5 NKJV
And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. – 1 Corinthians 9:25a NKJV