The Daily cover image

The Daily

How Bad Is Drinking for You, Really?

Jul 5, 2024
Susan Dominus, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, navigates our complex connection with alcohol, especially during festive times. She debunks the myth of moderate drinking's health benefits, revealing no advantages at any level. Dominus discusses evolving societal views on alcohol, balancing enjoyment against health risks, particularly cancer. Personal anecdotes highlight the struggle to moderate drinking habits while considering its implications on life expectancy, prompting a re-evaluation of our relationship with alcohol.
25:49

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Moderate alcohol consumption may increase all-cause mortality risk, contradicting previous health assumptions.
  • Personal health history and addiction susceptibility are crucial factors in assessing alcohol's impact on health.

Deep dives

Alcohol's Conflicting Health Effects

Research findings on the health effects of alcohol have been mired in contradiction for years, with past studies suggesting benefits like red wine's positive impact on heart health. However, recent comprehensive research reveals that even moderate alcohol consumption can increase the risk of all-cause mortality, contradicting prior assumptions about its health benefits.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner