Benefits of Drinking Alcohol
When consumed safely, there can be a few benefits of alcohol. Alcohol is pretty popular, and it’s common to find people enjoying a drink or two after work or on the weekends.
Over the years, many studies have been conducted exploring the benefits of alcohol, from the benefits of alcohol on the brain to the benefits of alcohol on the body.
Today, we explore some of the benefits of drinking alcohol that have been discovered through studies. You may be curious to learn more about what alcohol is good for health, or the results shown by some studies. Remember to always know your limits when consuming alcohol and to drink in moderation.
May extend your life
Many of us are searching for ways to make us live a longer life, but did you know that some studies have shown alcohol could help with this? A 2014 Spanish study found that those who drank small amounts of wine over a period of 12 years had a 25 per cent lower mortality risk. Another study conducted in 2018 found that older adults who drank in moderation could be at a lower risk of early death than those who abstained from alcohol completely.
Can lower heart disease risks
One potential health benefit of alcohol is that it can lower a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease. According to Harvard University, a collection of over 100 prospective studies found there was an “inverse association” with light or moderate alcohol consumption and a range of heart diseases, including clot-caused stroke, sudden cardiac death, heart attack, peripheral vascular disease, as well as death from all cardiovascular causes. In 2006, a study also found light to moderate drinking led to a reduction in vascular risk for those in middle-age, plus a lowered risk of ischemic stroke. However, it’s important to keep in mind that high levels of alcohol consumption can be linked to heart issues.
Can prevent colds
Some studies have found a possible link between moderate alcohol consumption and a reduced risk of catching the common cold. A 1993 study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University, involving 391 participants, found those who drank moderately had an increased resistance to colds. However, this was only the case for those who didn’t smoke. Similarly, a 2002 study published in The American Journal of Epidemiology found those who drank between eight and 14 glasses of wine each week (particularly red) saw as much as a 60 per cent reduction in their chance of developing colds.
Potential positive correlation with male fertility
An Italian study published in 2018 found that men who drank between four and seven drinks each week had higher fertility rates than those who drank between one and three drinks a week, or those who drank eight or more. This study involved 323 men and was conducted by an Italian fertility clinic.
May decrease the chance of developing dementia
One of the possible benefits of alcohol on the brain is a reduced risk of developing dementia. A study published by the Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment journal in 2011 found that those who drank between one and two drinks each day had a 23 per cent lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive impairment, or dementia. This study started in 1977 and involved over 365,000 participants. Co-author of the study, Edward J. Neafsey stated: “Small amounts of alcohol might, in effect, make brain cells more fit. Alcohol in moderate amounts stresses cells and thus toughens them up to cope with major stresses down the road that could cause dementia.”
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about some of the potential health benefits of alcohol. From impacts on the brain, heart, and immune system to a potentially positive effect on longevity and male fertility, studies have found alcohol may have several positive benefits.
Remember…
If you do choose to drink, it’s important to ensure you build and maintain a healthy relationship with alcohol. This includes understanding what constitutes a standard drink, knowing your limits, and never drinking to excess. It can also be a good idea to familiarise yourself with the negative impacts of alcohol and the potential dangers. A Responsible Service of Alcohol course such as those provided by Express Online Training can help you understand more about how to drink responsibly and make smart choices when drinking. These courses will also teach you what a standard drink is for different types of alcohol, how to serve alcohol correctly, and how to identify those who are intoxicated. In Australia, each person working within a bar, bottle shop, or other relevant licensed venues must legally hold a valid RSA certificate.
Our RSA courses can be completed online, 24/7. You can do them on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer, and stop and resume at any time. We also provide local support for any questions or queries you may have, 7 days a week. Start an RSA course with Express Online Training today, and learn more about alcohol.
