The Benefits of Alcohol

It is important to balance both the risks and benefits of drinking alcohol.

While sipping a glass of wine is probably good for your health, too much drinking can lead to a number of health problems and other issues. Know how to drink responsibility so you can enjoy an alcoholic beverage without worrying about its negative effects.

What is Moderation?

In order to fully receive the benefits of alcohol, it has to be consumed in moderation. So what then is the definition of moderation?

There has been a long debate of what moderation really is when it comes to alcohol consumption. And in fact, many studies have had drastically different conclusions. As of today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines moderation as no more than one to two drinks per day for men, and no more than one drink a day for women.

The Possible Health Benefits:

1. Lower Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

Many studies have concluded that moderate intake of alcohol actually lowers your risk for heart attack, ischemic (clot-caused) stroke, peripheral vascular disease, sudden cardiac death, and death from all cardiovascular causes. These studies found a 25 percent to 40 percent reduction in risk in both men and women. This seems to make sense scientifically because a moderate intake of alcohol is known to raise levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good” cholesterol), and higher HDL levels are connected with greater protection against heart disease.

2. Less Risk of Getting Type 2 Diabetes

Studies have shown that moderate drinkers are less likely to get type 2 diabetes versus non-drinkers. The emphasis here, as in everywhere else, is the word “moderate.” A similar study was done on heavy drinkers and the results were not the same.

3. Other Benefits

Besides the scientific and biologically benefits of consuming alcohol, the psychological and social benefits of alcohol cannot be ignored. On a stressful day an alcohol beverage can clear your mind, as well as help with digestion. Alcohol is also a social tonic in the way that enjoying a drink with friends is known to be beneficial to your overall health.

Beware of the Dark Sides of Alcohol

Realize that all of these benefits are possible when alcohol is consumed moderately. Drinking 7 beers on a Saturday night is not the same as drinking one a day. Heavy drinking can lead to addiction, and higher risk for certain cancers.

If you remember the word moderation when enjoying alcohol you have nothing to worry about and you will be rewarded with health benefits. Here at Julio’s Liquors in Westborough, MA, we can help you pick the wine, beer, or spirit that you want to enjoy with dinner this week. We support moderate drinking, the reason being these benefits. Stop by and talk to one of our expert staff members. We hope to see you soon!