In recent years, the perception of moderate or light alcohol consumption as relatively benign has gained traction, especially among older adults who may view a glass of wine or a cocktail as a harmless indulgence. However, emerging research suggests that even light drinking can have significant and potentially harmful effects.
The Aging Body & Light Drinking
As people age, their bodies undergo various physiological changes that impact alcohol metabolism and its effects. Light drinking is commonly defined as consuming up to one standard drink per day for women and up to two for men. However, these benefits do not necessarily translate into positive outcomes for older adults, who face different health challenges.
According to new research, no quantity of alcohol is healthy or safe to take as you become older. A 12-year UK study of 135,000 persons aged 60 and up discovered that even mild drinking was connected with an increase in cancer deaths. This increase was more significant among older persons who lived in low-income neighbourhoods and had health issues.
These findings challenge the commonly accepted assumption that little amounts of alcohol, particularly red wine, are beneficial to the heart. This assumption is based on insufficient evidence that the vino-avowed French had lower rates of heart disease. The latest study, published Monday in the journal JAMA Network Open, found that there was no reduction in heart disease fatalities among light or moderate drinkers, regardless of their health or socioeconomic level.
The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction will release updated alcohol-related health guidelines in 2023. According to Canadian regulators, “no amount or kind of alcohol is good for your health,” even in a “small amount.”
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Light Drinking: Alcohol For Older Adults
Light drinking is often viewed as a relatively harmless way to enjoy alcohol without succumbing to the negative effects associated with heavier consumption. It’s typically defined by moderate consumption, which, according to many health guidelines, involves up to one standard drink per day for women and up to two for men. Despite its reputation for being less risky than heavier drinking, light drinking can still have significant health implications, particularly for certain populations like older adults.
Given the potential risks, there is a growing movement to reevaluate the guidelines for alcohol consumption, especially for older adults. The effects of alcohol can vary widely depending on individual health, age, and other factors.
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