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Let’s Talk about Alcohol: What You Need to Know! - Friday Food Talk

Growing up in a family that strictly avoided alcohol, I never imagined it would become part of my life. However, after moving to America, I felt pressured to try it to fit into societal norms. Over time, alcohol became a staple at social gatherings. While I never fully enjoyed it, saying no seemed harder than going along with the crowd.

Everything changed when I heard about the U.S. Surgeon General's call for a cancer warning on alcoholic beverages. That announcement pushed me to dig deeper into the truth about alcohol. Here’s what I discovered:


The Good:

Social Connectivity: Alcohol is often associated with social bonding and relaxation. For many, it serves as a way to break the ice or unwind with friends.


The Bad:

Empty Calories: Alcoholic beverages are high in calories but lack nutritional value, making them a poor choice for anyone watching their diet.

Health Risks: Regular consumption can harm your brain, heart, liver, and mental health, leading to a cascade of potential health issues.


The Ugly:

Alcohol and Cancer: The evidence is clear: alcohol is a carcinogen. According to experts, "From a cancer prevention standpoint, it's probably best not to drink."


Our Insights:

There’s no safe level of alcohol consumption for our health. Alcohol is a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified it as a Group 1 carcinogen decades ago, placing it in the same category as asbestos, tobacco, and radiation.

Alcohol consumption is linked to at least seven types of cancer, including bowel cancer and female breast cancer. Ethanol, the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages, breaks down into harmful compounds in the body, contributing to cancer development—regardless of the price or quality of the drink.


References:

1.      https://abcnews.go.com/Health/surgeon-general-warns-link-alcohol-consumption-cancer-risk/story?id=117294408

2.      https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/red-wine-may-not-be-health-tonic-it-cancer-risk-2025a10000o5?ecd=WNL_trdalrt_pos1_250114_etid7162712&uac=303474CG&impID=7162712

3.      https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/about-alcohol-use/moderate-alcohol-use.html

4.      https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/04-01-2023-no-level-of-alcohol-consumption-is-safe-for-our-health

 

Disclaimer

This information is meant for general guidance and should not be considered medical advice. For personalized recommendations, consult your healthcare provider. Join our Wellness Workshop to learn how to make intentional, responsible dietary choices to support your health and wellness.





Disclaimer! Please note that this page is not medical advice. It offers only general guidance for a healthy and balanced diet. This food does not guarantee an adequate or safe intake level for any individual. Please consult your healthcare provider and explore our Medical Nutrition Therapy services for a meal plan tailored to your needs.