Moderate Alcohol Consumption

Is moderate alcohol consumption your goal?

Is it actually better for you than no alcohol?

A statistical error

There are lots of reasons for choosing to drink some alcohol, from enjoyment of the flavors of fine wines and craft beers to cultural connections with cocktails. But one of the reasons is a misconception.

Statistically, people who consume some alcohol sometimes show better outcomes than people who never drink at all. Explanations for this include the benefits of reservation, Mediterranean habits, and just being surprised but pleased to see that one drink a day is good for you.

In fact, the studies that showed these results included people who had stopped drinking entirely for health reasons. People who had been advised by their doctors to give up drinking because of heart disease, diabetes, gout, and other health issues were included along with ordinary nondrinkers. People who had abused alcohol and given it up entirely were included with teetotalers. This skewed the results of the research.

When the studies were corrected to include people with similar health profiles, the results were different: the less alcohol the better.

Give up the excuse

You may still want to go for moderate consumption of alcohol. That choice can give you freedom from cravings for alcohol and better health outcomes than those for heavy drinkers. But don’t use that statistical anomaly to reinforce your desire to drink.

Check this information first:

Then consider what “moderate consumption” means to you. Set a goal and work to reach that goal. Do you need help? Book a free Discovery Call with me and get started.

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