Alcohol and Cancer. There is good news and bad news regarding alcohol and
cancer. Medical research indicates that increased levels of liver, esophagus, breast,
and mouth-related cancers in heavy drinkers. However, moderate drinkers have
less likelihood of developing polyps in their bowels, which are a precursor to colon
cancer. Since colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United
States, this is significant.
A study on peptic ulcers is a good way to summarize this section of the text.
The research found that moderate drinking—one beer or glass of wine a day—
curbed the formation of bacteria that are thought to cause ulcers in the stomach.
But drinking twice that much, or consuming distilled spirits, actually increased the
risk of getting an ulcer. The message? Moderation, moderation, moderation. If you
require further evidence, read on.