Heart surgeon debunks alcohol longevity myth

For years, the idea that a daily glass of wine could help you live longer has been widely accepted, encouraging many to view moderate alcohol consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle. But experts now argue that this belief rests on flawed science — and that alcohol remains toxic to the body even in small amounts.

Flawed research behind the claim

Dr. Jeremy London, a board‑certified cardiothoracic surgeon with more than 25 years of experience, addressed the issue in an Instagram video posted June 4. He explained that the research often cited to support moderate drinking was based on observational studies with significant flaws.

Early studies compared drinkers with non‑drinkers, but many in the non‑drinking group were former drinkers who had quit due to health problems. This skewed the results, making moderate drinkers appear healthier by comparison. “Does drinking in moderation add years to your life? Well, that used to be the story,” Dr. London said. “The longevity claim came from studies comparing drinkers to non‑drinkers. But the non‑drinkers were full of people who’d already quit – often because they were sick. That made moderate drinkers look healthier by comparison. Fix the flaw, and the benefit shrinks toward nothing.”

Alcohol’s inherent risks

Dr. London emphasized that alcohol is harmful regardless of consumption level. When metabolized, ethanol produces acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that damages DNA and is classified as a carcinogen — the same category as substances found in tobacco. “Here’s what doesn’t shrink,” he explained. “Every time you drink, your body turns ethanol into acetaldehyde – a reactive compound that damages DNA. The same agency that classifies tobacco as a carcinogen puts acetaldehyde in the same group.”

No safe limit

According to Dr. London, there are no scientifically proven health benefits to drinking alcohol. Evidence shows that less is always better, and abstaining is preferable to even small amounts. He urged people to make informed choices: “So, have any of these agencies found a benefit to drinking alcohol? The short answer is no. What they have identified is that a little is better than a lot and none is better than a little. So, what I ask is, make informed decisions. If you’re going to drink, don’t drink because you think it’s going to add years to your life.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition