Is Alcohol Good For Your Health?
You may have seen studies claiming that alcohol is good for you. Some even claim that moderate alcohol consumption is a key part of a healthy lifestyle. But, how true are these claims? Today we're going to take a look at alcohol use and discuss how you can incorporate alcohol into your healthy lifestyle, if you choose.
Possible benefits of moderate alcohol consumption
Nothing is good for you in excess, and that certainly includes alcohol. Still, some research suggests that health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption might include:
- Reduced risk of developing and dying from heart disease.
- Possible reduction in risk of ischemic stroke, a type of stroke that occurs when arteries to the brain become narrowed or blocked.
- Potentially reduced risk of diabetes.
What is moderate alcohol use?
Recommended limits for alcohol consumption vary from one country to the next, though the generally accepted range for healthy adults is one drink per day for women of all ages and men who are older than 65, and up to two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger. However, “A large, international study has found that consuming more than the equivalent of five drinks per week — almost two-thirds fewer than the amount deemed safe for men in the U.S. — is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a shortened life span.”
Keeping these findings in mind, it makes sense to limit the number of alcoholic drinks you have each week. These are the guidelines for what “one drink” means:
Beer : 12 fluid ounces
Wine : 5 fluid ounces
Distilled spirits (80 proof) : 1.5 fluid ounces
Understanding the limitations of scientific studies
In 2017, news broke that a study on the positive health effects of alcohol was sponsored by alcohol companies themselves. No one can say exactly what impact this has on findings, but it does underline the importance of looking critically at any scientific study.
At the end of the day, you know how one drink makes you feel, and also how it feels when you exceed that limit. No matter what, the consensus is that moderation is always the way to go, unless you struggle with alcohol abuse and/or addiction.
If you struggle with alcohol abuse, help is available
If alcohol has had a negative impact on your social life, career, and elsewhere, it's time to consider getting some help.
Addiction is a tough battle, but it is a winnable one. In therapy, you'll work with a counselor who can help you understand the root of your addiction and unhealthy behaviors. Every counselor and program is different, but at Foundations Counseling, our drug and alcohol abuse outpatient therapy model works with your lifestyle to help you beat addiction.
If you aren't sure about therapy, give us a call to schedule a free consultation where you can ask questions and learn more.
