Wine: Friend or Foe?

Earlier this year results were published from a large study stating that even light to moderate amounts of alcohol (wine included) can increase the risk of developing cancer. The study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, examined the rates of cancer in over 1 million women aged 50 to 64 and compared at the rates of cancer with weekly drinking habits. They found that even a small amount of alcohol consumption is linked to a higher risk of cancer of the pharynx, esophagus, larynx, rectum, liver and breast. The risk increased for each drink per day.
 

 

Similarly, a US study found that a daily drink increased risk of developing breast cancer. The study found that those who drank a glass a day had a 1/3 increased risk of developing breast cancer compared those who did not drink, or drank little. Two drinks a day increased the risk by 50%, compared to those who didn’t drink.

Phew - scary stuff. So does this mean that we shouldn’t drink at all? In an article in The Press Newspaper in April this year, Breast Cancer Foundation medical committee chairwoman Belinda Scott said many of the women treated in cancer clinics were regular drinkers. But, her advice was not to never drink - but to do it in moderation.  

So what about red wine and heart health? Red wine contains antioxidants that are thought to protect against heart disease by increasing levels of good cholesterol and protecting against artery damage. But that doesn’t mean it's OK to drink more. The same principle applies – moderation. 

So – to drink or not to drink – that is the question. The key is in the amount you drink. Binge drinking is unhealthy and drinking every day can increase your risk of cancer. So enjoy occasionally – making sure you stick to The Alcohol Advisory Council recommendations of having at least two alcohol free days a week.