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Science Behind Health Benefits of Moderate Beer ConsumptionHealth Benefits Most people have heard about the potential health benefits of red wine, but in the past decade hundreds of studies have been conducted suggesting that some of the benefits derived from moderate alcohol consumption arise from the ethanol itself, making consumption of beer, wine or spirits equally beneficial. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans cite several studies indicating that light-to-moderate alcohol consumption is linked to lower mortality from coronary heart disease, especially among men ages 45 or older and women ages 55 or older.* The Guidelines recommend that “If you choose to drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation,” which the Guidelines define as one drink a day for women and two for men. Survey Results Drinking in moderation seems like a simple message. Research suggests that there are health benefits from moderate consumption of beverage alcohol. However, there is an enormous challenge in communicating the potential benefits of moderate alcohol consumption that does not encourage excess consumption among drinkers or encourage non-drinkers to drink alcohol. Conclusions, Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 1. In middle-aged and older adults, a daily intake of one to two alcoholic
beverages is associated with the lowest all-cause mortality. |
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