Changing Views on Alcohol
For years, moderate drinking—especially red wine—was thought to be good for the heart. More recent research has challenged that idea.
Many earlier studies compared moderate drinkers to non-drinkers, but the non-drinker group often included people who had quit because of health problems, which made moderate drinking look better than it really was.
What Current Research Shows
- Cancer risk: Alcohol is a known cause of several cancers, including breast, colorectal, liver, mouth, throat, and esophageal cancer. Risk rises even at low levels of drinking. In early 2025, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory highlighting alcohol's link to cancer
- Heart health: Any heart benefits of light drinking appear smaller than once believed, and heavier drinking raises blood pressure and the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure
- Other risks: Alcohol affects sleep, weight, liver health, mood, and accident risk
Many health organizations now say that less is better, and there's no level of drinking that's completely risk-free.
Current U.S. Guidance
Previous U.S. dietary guidelines advised that adults who drink limit intake to 2 drinks or fewer per day for men and 1 or fewer for women, and that people who don't drink shouldn't start for health reasons. More recent guidance emphasizes that drinking less is better for overall health.
Do You Need to Quit Completely?
Not necessarily. For many people, light drinking carries a small added risk. The right choice depends on your:
- Personal and family history of cancer, liver disease, or addiction
- Medications (alcohol interacts with many)
- Sleep, mood, and weight goals
- Overall health
You should avoid alcohol completely if you're pregnant, have certain medical conditions, take interacting medications, or have trouble controlling your drinking.
Tips for Drinking Less
- Set alcohol-free days each week
- Try non-alcoholic alternatives
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
- Notice how you sleep and feel on days without alcohol
If you're worried about your drinking, help is available. Call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
For a personalized health plan, talk with a Heva specialist: Talk to a Heva Specialist
The Bottom Line
No amount of alcohol is completely risk-free, and less is generally better. You don't necessarily need to quit, but cutting back is one of the simplest ways to improve long-term health.