A member asked:

Are there any science prooved benefits of drinking alcohol?

12 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Ravi Srivastava answered

Specializes in Addiction Medicine

Yes, but marginal : The research studies that show benefits of drinking alcohol are to be viewed with caution. First of all it is not valid for habitual users or people with a predisposition for addiction. This creates a dilemma... You become and addict if you are using alcohol daily. The daily use increases the 'tolerance' for alcohol... I.E. You need higher amounts of alcohol for the same effect.

Answered 1/19/2012

6.1k views

Thank
Dr. K. Olson answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Alcohol dangers: It tends to disrupt sleep - not normal architecture - and thus is more non-resorative. This may not only be for the night you drink but metabolites may affect quality of sleep the second night even though no alcohol ingested. Alcohol can undermine the efficacy of medications and when combined with antidepressants can cause a "double-dipper" phenomenon. Alcohol levels surge, antidepressant drop.

Answered 5/8/2016

6.1k views

Thank

May increase HDL: Moderate alcohol use may increase HDL (good cholesterol), which may help lower the risk of heart disease. But too much alcohol can increase triglycerides, which would increase the risk of heart disease. The key is to drink in moderation. If you currently don't drink, don't start drinking for the possible health benefits. The moderate alcohol use is 1-2 drinks/day for men and 1 drink/day for women.

Answered 5/8/2016

6.1k views

Thank

Related Questions

A member asked:

Is it unsafe to drink small amounts of alcohol?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A member asked:

What amount of alcohol is condered moderately drinking?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

What kinds of alcohol should galactosemic people not drink?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

Are certain types of alcohol considered healthier to drink?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

How do I give up drinking alcohol?

6 doctors weighed in across 3 answers