The idea that having a glass of wine a day is beneficial for heart health has long been popular, but recent guidelines and research are challenging this belief. While previous recommendations encouraged moderate alcohol consumption, the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory now emphasizes that even small amounts of alcohol could pose serious health risks, particularly by increasing the likelihood of developing cancer.
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines still suggest limited alcohol intake—two drinks per day for men and one for women—but experts are beginning to rethink the safety of alcohol in any amount.
The Surgeon General’s Advisory highlights the well-established link between alcohol and cancer, noting that alcohol is responsible for approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 deaths annually in the U.S. Despite this, many Americans remain unaware of the cancer risks associated with alcohol consumption.
Studies have shown that alcohol increases the risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast cancer, and experts like Dr. Faiz Bhora argue that there is no safe level of alcohol use.
Dr. Bhora, a professor of surgery at Hackensack Meridian Health, explains the mechanisms through which alcohol causes cellular damage, including oxidative stress and impaired DNA repair. These factors lead to DNA mutations and cell cycle disruptions that can result in cancer formation.
Given the known risks, the Surgeon General is calling for alcohol manufacturers to update their warning labels to reflect the potential cancer risks, rather than just the warnings about pregnancy and impaired driving that currently appear on labels.
Despite these serious concerns, alcohol consumption remains deeply embedded in social and cultural practices, often being used for socialization and emotional support. Dr. Bhora argues, however, that the benefits people associate with alcohol—such as stress reduction—are questionable.
He believes that there is little scientific evidence supporting the idea that alcohol, including a daily glass of wine, offers significant health benefits. Past studies that suggested alcohol might reduce the risk of heart disease are now being criticized for flawed methodologies, leading experts to reevaluate the positive claims.
In light of these risks, Dr. Bhora advocates for a shift in societal attitudes toward alcohol consumption. He suggests moving away from the idea that daily alcohol intake is harmless and encourages people to limit their drinking to weekends or eliminate it entirely.
Many individuals who have reduced or stopped drinking report feeling liberated, experiencing greater clarity of thought and increased productivity. This growing trend could signal a broader cultural shift towards healthier, alcohol-free lifestyles.