Moderate Drinking vs. Abstinence: Which Protects Health Better?

This is a 4-year study testing whether moderate drinking following a Mediterranean-style pattern is as safe as abstaining from alcohol completely. Researchers will enroll over 10,000 people aged 50–75 who currently drink regularly, and randomly assign them to receive either advice to quit drinking entirely, or advice to drink moderately (no more than 7 drinks per week for women or 14 per week for men, preferably with meals). The study will track whether either approach better prevents serious health problems like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and depression.

Health experts currently disagree about the safest amount of alcohol to drink. Some say no amount is safe, while other research suggests moderate drinkers may actually live longer than people who don't drink at all. This confusion makes it hard for doctors and patients to know what advice to follow. This trial will provide clear, real-world evidence to settle the question.