Moderate Drinkers 'Healthier Than Teetotallers'

Doesn't mean drinking causes good health: study
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted May 20, 2010 5:10 AM CDT
Moderate Drinkers 'Healthier Than Teetotallers'
Moderate drinkers were defined as those who consume between one and three units of alcohol a day, about half a bottle of fairly weak wine.   (Shutter Stock)

People who drink in moderation tend to be healthier and more successful than both heavy drinkers and people who abstain from booze completely, according to a wide-ranging French study. The researchers warn, however, that you can't drink your way to health and success. The findings, they say, indicate that people who control their drinking are likelier to come from higher socio-economic groups and are more inclined to exercise and generally look after their health.

The findings don't support theories which hold that moderate alcohol consumption—defined as two or three glasses of wine a day—actually improves health, the Telegraph reports. "Moderate alcohol intake is a powerful marker of a higher social level, superior general health status and lower cardiovascular risk," said the lead researcher, noting that moderate and light drinkers tended to have lower levels of stress, obesity, and depression.
(More alcohol stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X