Until now we have heard experts say that alcohol could be consumed in moderation. We have seen advertising and reports that establish a maximum amount of alcohol that our bodies can consume without being damaged. We have even seen studies that supported the consumption of a glass of wine daily, arguing for various health benefits.

However, on Aug. 23, the prestigious medical journal The Lancet revolutionized all previous theories by publishing the conclusions of a large study conducted on alcohol consumption. In this investigation, the largest on the subject made to date, the dangerous nature of this substance is demonstrated based on the fact that nearly 3 million of the deaths that occurred 2016 listed alcohol as the main cause.

According to the researchers, the study shows conclusive data on the relationship between alcohol consumption and premature death, as well as the appearance of cancer and cardiovascular problems. The conclusions of this investigation, which includes alcoholic beverages such as wine and beer, can be summarized in the statement that there is no level of safe consumption of alcohol. Only zero consumption would minimize the great risk that this substance has for our health.

To carry out this study, almost 700 sources of data on alcohol consumption and almost 600 studies on this subject were analyzed. In addition, the researchers worked with a total of 40 countries that collaborated to contribute data and studies carried out internally. The researchers analyzed data obtained between 1990 and 2016 in 195 different countries. Thanks to this, it was possible to relate health with the prevalence of alcohol consumption to reach different conclusions.

According to researchers, alcohol is one of the leading causes of death in the world. By participating in this study and publicizing it in the media, these researchers aim to require countries to tighten policies related to the consumption and advertising of alcoholic beverages.