I Knew It!

A recent study published by the US Dept of Health and Human Services shows that moderate wine drinkers use Medicare less. The research was initially started to see if alcohol use was costing Medicare money -- and the results were a huge surprise.

They found that

"light and moderate wine drinkers on Medicare each save about $400 in health care costs each year."

During the five years of the study (which tracked over 4000 patients), those who drank wine moderately (1-2 glasses a day) had $2000 less in medical costs. Those who drank spirits also saved money, but not as much. Heavy drinkers had the same costs as nondrinkers. Moderate drinkers seek medical attention less often, and are hospitalized and treated less often.

"For us, the question was whether Medicare ought to be discouraging alcohol use more actively...and it appears probably not." Dr. Kenneth Mukamal.

We have already seen that a glass of red wine contains resveratrol, which is good for the heart, limits brain damage from strokes, helps you live longer, and may help prevent certain types of cancer. (details of the research can be found at WineSpectator). Having a glass a day may really be good for you -- and I, for one, will be following that prescription!