New U. S. Dietary Guidelines: A Shift in Alcohol Advice
The U.S. recently updated its dietary guidelines, with a notable change in the advice on alcohol. Instead of specifying drink limits, the new guidelines simply recommend to "limit alcoholic beverages." This marks a departure from the previous rules, which suggested different limits for men and women.
Key Changes in the Guidelines
- No Specific Limits: The guidelines no longer distinguish between men and women, despite scientific evidence that they process alcohol differently.
- Focus on Whole Foods: The new advice encourages eating whole foods, healthy fats, protein-rich meals, and full-fat dairy without added sugars.
Expert Opinions
During a press briefing, Dr. Mehmet Oz, head of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, stated that the old drink limits were not based on solid science. He referred to alcohol as a "social lubricant" that helps people bond. He also noted that in "blue zones"—regions where people live long lives—small amounts of alcohol are sometimes part of their diet.
Criticism and Concerns
Not everyone agrees with the new guidelines. Groups like the U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance criticize them for not clearly stating the risks of drinking, such as cancer and violence. The CDC warns that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Alcohol use disorder
Global Perspectives
The World Health Organization (WHO) asserts that there is no safe amount of alcohol. A 2024 WHO report revealed that in 2019, over 3 million people died from substance use, and 400 million people lived with substance use disorders. The American Heart Association also states that alcohol does not protect heart health and can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
