We’ve reported from time to time on the mounting medical evidence that drinking alcohol at any levels has negative health consequences, and the cumulative reporting on the topic seems to be seeping through to Americans’ behaviors. For the first time, Gallup is reporting that a majority of Americans, 53%, say drinking in moderation, or “one or two drinks a day,” is bad for one’s health.
That view appears to be impacting consumption patterns. According to the new Gallup poll, the share of U.S. adults who drink alcohol has fallen to an all-time low of 54% - a 6-point drop from 2023. The change is especially noticeable among women, whose drinking rates have dropped 11 points to 51%, and among younger adults (ages 18–34), which declined by 9%. The drop in drinking among younger cohorts reflects a rising belief (now at 66%) that any level of drinking is bad for your health. Gallup also reports that the decline in drinking has not led, at least over the last four years, to a substitution effect among other drugs, as reported consumption of marijuana, for instance, has remained steady during that time period.
Evidently, we don’t need to enumerate the many benefits of drinking less — as it appears more and more people are picking up on its many negative side effects. But we’re going to do so anyway, for good measure. The long-term benefits of drinking less include:
Lower blood pressure
Lower risk of stroke, hypertension, cancer and liver disease
Lower cholesterol levels
Better mood, memory and quality of sleep
Help with weight management
So next time you wind down with a cup of tea to instead of that glass of wine, your body will thank you.
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