Alcohol – Is it a yea or nay?

Sometimes when you go out to dinner with friends or with just with the girls, there’s that moment when you look at the drink schedule in every now and again you decide perhaps you will have a glass of wine or a fruity drink like a Bahama mama, sangria, beer and although you are not a heavy drinker – the question is, is it harmful?

The latest findings are based on a study that was conducted over a period of 16 years in 195 countries – no alcohol period. Researchers have declared – None. Nunca, Nada, Nyet, Non!!!

Well, after reading all of the different research studies from the experts in the field of research, who have told us that we could have a glass of wine. In fact, they insist that we have a glass of wine each day as it may be good for our heart – then again it may not be – because it may cause cancer – but then again, if it’s red it’s probably healthy for us. Needless to say, we fall into the confusion of not knowing whether it is or is not really good for us. Therefore, we decide that we will sip on this one drink and pray for the best.

The distinction that should be clear, is that if we drink heavily or binge – it may result in compromising your health and well-being. You may be placing yourself at risk for cancer (breast, colon and rectal, liver, esophagus, the larynx/voice box, pharynx/throat, mouth) pancreatitis and stroke. The truth is that if we have a family history of alcoholism, we should avoid drinking.

This is neither an anti-alcohol or endorsement of alcohol consumption. It is more of an exploration into studies and their findings. Research studies may be lost in translation and in that frustration, it may actually lose its credibility as one may determine that there are too many contradictions.

However, as always, whatever you do decide – do so in moderation. When you complete your health questionnaire, you may be able to select the appropriate response – on occasion.