What are the health benefits of taking alcohol?!First of all, we aren’t talking frat party style binge drinking or a weekend in Las Vegas. Over consumption of alcohol can have devastating health effects, but a drink or two a day might actually help keep the doctor away? Here are eight reasons why:
It Can Reduce the Risk Of Gallstones
Drinking two units of alcohol per day can reduce the risk of gallstones by one-third, according to researchers at the University of East Anglia. The study found that those who reported consuming two units of alcohol per day had a one-third reduction in their risk of developing gallstones. “Researchers emphasized that their findings show the benefits of moderate alcohol intake but stress that excessive alcohol intake can cause health problems,” according to the study
It Can Decrease Chances of Developing Dementia
Moderate drinkers were 23 percent less likely to develop cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. “Small amounts of alcohol might, in effect, make brain cells more fit. Alcohol in moderate amounts stresses cells and thus toughens them up to cope with major stresses down the road that could cause dementia,” said Edward J. Neafsey, Ph.D., co-author of the study, as reported by Science Daily. “We don’t recommend that non-drinkers start drinking,” Neafsey said. “But moderate drinking — if it is truly moderate — can be beneficial
Alcohol Reduces Stress:
A cocktail can be the perfect way to unwind after a long, tough day on the job.
Makes People More Sociable
Social people are healthier than their isolated friends and a dose of liquid courage is just the thing to spur a conversation.
Benefits the Heart
Alcohol raises good cholesterol and lowers blood pressure as a part of its anxiety fighting characteristics.
Can Prevent Injury
Because alcohol relaxes the body, in case of an accident, the body absorbs less force. As a result, bones and organs are less likely to be damaged.
Has a Calming Effect
Alcohol is a depressant that slows the central nervous system and promotes the release of dopamine. This reaction induces feelings of calmness and sleepiness.
Prevents Inflammation
A little bit of booze stops reactions that lead to an inflammatory response by your immune system.
Lowers the Chance of Diabetes
Results of a Dutch study showed that healthy adults who drink one to two glasses per day have a decreased chance of developing type 2 diabetes, in comparison to those who don’t drink at all. “The results of the investigation show that moderate alcohol consumption can play a part in a healthy lifestyle to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes type 2,” researchers said in a statement. If you have diabetes, moderate consumption of alcohol improves glucose tolerance. If you don’t have diabetes, moderate consumption reduces the risk of development. Alcohol is not recommended to under 18 years