Several studies in recent years have highlighted health benefits of small to moderate amounts of alcohol. The most well-known beneficial class is red wine. But a person can be perfectly healthy with no alcohol at all. The thing is the reality of the matter: while a small amount may have health benefits, in reality, many people will consume way too too much, which becomes very unhealthy.
Our ancestors, from the middle ages to prehistoric times, usually had exposure to alcohol to some degree. Often it was in short supply, unless one was wealthy or harvests were especially bountiful. With modern agricultural efficiencies, alcohol has become very cheap, so that even the very poor can afford something. This dangerous equation makes it very easy to consume too much alcohol for those same types that would not have had the opportunity in ancient times.
The unhealthy effects of excessive alcohol consumption are well-known, so if person has a tendency to drink too much they will be more likely healthiest overall to abstain from alcohol altogether. But for those who can be disciplined, small amounts of red wines and beers can benefit your heart and even perhaps slow down the aging process a little!
