22. Can alcohol consumption be beneficial?

In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, Miles Hassell MD explores the complex and often controversial topic of alcohol consumption and its impact on health. From historical context to modern studies, he provides a balanced look at the potential benefits and risks of alcohol, encouraging viewers to make informed decisions based on evidence rather than emotion. Summary: Dr. Hassell discusses the nuanced role of alcohol in health and lifestyle. While heavy drinking poses clear dangers—such as liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and societal harm—low to moderate consumption might have benefits in certain contexts. Evidence from large studies suggests reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of dementia for moderate drinkers, particularly when paired with a healthy lifestyle. Key Takeaways: Moderation is Key: Up to 7 drinks per week for women and 10-14 for men may provide benefits, but heavy drinking is harmful. Context Matters: Alcohol's benefits are most evident in a healthy lifestyle, alongside good nutrition and regular exercise. Potential Benefits: Includes improved heart health, reduced type 2 diabetes risk, and enhanced cognitive function. Risks to Consider: Alcohol can still pose risks, including cancer, dependence, and societal harm, even at low levels. Preferred Choice: Red wine may offer additional health benefits due to its antioxidants. For more insights and advice on reducing dependence on medications through lifestyle changes, make sure to subscribe to Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor. More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air?  Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: [email protected] Write us a letter.  We love to hear from you.  This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners.  Send questions, comments, and support to: 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 References: Buljeta, I., et al. (2023). Beneficial effects of red wine polyphenols on human health: comprehensive review. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 45(2), 782–798. https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb45020052 Yoo, J. E., et al. (2022). Association between changes in alcohol consumption and cancer risk. JAMA Network Open, 5(8), e2228544. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.28544 Yoo JE, et al. Association between changes in alcohol consumption and cancer risk (supplemental data, tables e1 and e2). JAMA Netw Open. 2022;5(8):e2228544. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.28544 CDC.gov. (2024). About moderate alcohol use. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/about-alcohol-use/moderate-alcohol-use.html#:~:text=to%20not%20drinking.-,Moderate%20drinking,or%20less%20in%20a%20day Pierre-Louis, T., et al. (2020). Effects of alcohol consumption in general, and wine in particular, on the risk of cancer development: a review. Oeno One, 54(4). https://doi.org/10.20870/oeno-one.2020.54.4.3569 Hong, S., et al. (2020). Alcohol consumption and the risk of prostate cancer: a dose-response meta-analysis. Nutrients, 12(8), 2188. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12082188 Zhang, X., et al. (2021). Alcohol consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and mortality: a prospective cohort study. Nutrition Journal, 20(1), 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-021-00671-y Ortola, R., et al. (2024). Alcohol consumption patterns and mortality among older adults with health-related or socioeconomic risk factors. JAMA Network Open, 7(8), e2424495. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.24495 Lofterod, T., et al. (2020). Exploring the effects of lifestyle on breast cancer risk, age at diagnosis, and survival: the EBBA-Life study. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 182(1), 215–227. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10549-020-05679-2 Tamimi, R. M., et al. (2016). Population attributable risk of modifiable and nonmodifiable breast cancer risk factors in postmenopausal breast cancer. American Journal of Epidemiology, 184(12), 884–893. https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kww145 Cancer.gov. (2021, July 14). Alcohol and Cancer Risk. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/alcohol/alcohol-fact-sheet#how-does-alcohol-affect-the-risk-of-cancer Colditz, G. (2024). Overview of Cancer Prevention. UpToDate.com https://www.uptodate.com/contents/overview-of-cancer-prevention AICR.org. (2024, July 5). New study finds AICR/WCRF's cancer prevention recommendations are associated with reduced mortality risk from all causes, cancer and heart disease. American institute for Cancer Research. https:// www.aicr.org/news/new-study-finds-aicr-wcrfs-cancer-prevention-recommendations-are-associated-with-reduced-mortality-risk-from-all-causes-cancer-and-heart-disease/