Probably, at least, because it’s a new week and a new one of these studies. But we’re beer drinkers around here, so when we hear about good health relating to our infatuation with craft beer, we’re joining the bandwagon. This study, though, actually is quite surprising. It states that people who drink in moderate amounts actually live longer than people who don’t drink at all. And the real shocker: heavy drinkers (more than 3 drinks a day) live longer than non-drinkers as well. Whoa.
Moderate drinking, which is defined as one to three drinks per day, is associated with the lowest mortality rates in alcohol studies. Moderate alcohol use (especially when the beverage of choice is red wine) is thought to improve heart health, circulation and sociability, which can be important because people who are isolated don’t have as many family members and friends who can notice and help treat health problems.
But why would abstaining from alcohol lead to a shorter life? It’s true that those who abstain from alcohol tend to be from lower socioeconomic classes, since drinking can be expensive. And people of lower socioeconomic status have more life stressors — job and child-care worries that might not only keep them from the bottle but also cause stress-related illnesses over long periods. (They also don’t get the stress-reducing benefits of a drink or two after work.)
Not exactly the most rousing support of going out and becoming an alcoholic, but definitely a curious report to be sure. As always with these studies, be careful. I think we know that drinking in moderation certainly won’t kill you, but still can lead to certain types of cancers. But it does sound like you’re more apt to have a good time and be more carefree. So pick your poison, really.
TIME Magazine — Heavy Drinkers Outlive Nondrinkers, Study Finds
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