One cancer, on the rocks

Drinking may cause cancer, so why don't more people know?

IN a nutshell Hi! With 2022 almost in the bag, I want to thank you all for reading our newsletter. I really do consider you all friends, even if that's a little weird and illogical. Today, we'll be digging into the link between alcohol and cancer. Despite years of evidence that alcohol raises the risk of cancer, a new survey suggests the research community has dropped the ball on getting that information into public hands. Below, we attempt to right that wrong. Plus, we'll share some of our top health stories of the week. Stay sharp, Ginger Wojcik Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Ginger Wojcik December 28, 2022 • 3 min read

what's got us buzzing All types of alcohol increase your risk of cancer Wine tastings, keg stands, cocktail parties — alcohol is a popular part of Western culture. It gives us no pleasure to report there's strong evidence that drinking any kind of alcohol raises your risk of developing seven types of cancer. This isn't exactly new news, but many of you may be learning it for the first time. A recent survey found most U.S. adults weren't aware of the link between alcohol and cancer. In fact, 10.3% of respondents falsely believed drinking wine decreased the risk of cancer. (Small amounts of red wine may provide health benefits, but cancer reduction isn't one of them.) In the words of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk of cancer." It recommends two drinks or fewer per day for men or one drink or fewer per day for women but point out that even drinking within these limits can have serious long-term health effects. Drinking less is easier said than done, of course. If you're a casual drinker, small changes like planning alcohol-free activities, sipping on nonalcoholic drinks, and not buying alcohol at the grocery store may help you cut back. Alcohol use disorder, which is a serious health condition, can be much more difficult to overcome, but it's possible. If you're looking for help, consider finding an Alcoholics Anonymous program in your area. Joining an online alcohol support group can give you a sense of community and help you heal. tl;dr: A new survey found the majority of U.S. adults weren't aware that drinking any type of alcohol increases your risk of developing seven types of cancer. Learn how to make a plan to stop drinking here.

say what   Look who's talking "The horrific public execution of Majidreza Rahnavard exposes Iran's judiciary for what it is: a tool of repression sending individuals to the gallows to spread fear." – Diana Eltahawy, Amnesty International     Iran has carried out two public executions of protestors this month in what is widely seen as a message to the public. The regime has also arrested thousands, and advocates are concerned more executions may come. Protests — many of them female-led — have swept Iran since September, when 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died suspiciously in police custody.

health stories you need What we're reading next Spend a little time outside every day for better sleep. A new study found that being exposed to natural light improved rest even on cloudy days. 9 tips for joyful, balanced eating from Divya's Ayurvedic Kitchen. The renowned cook, author, and restaurateur shares her healthy eating principles. Meat substitutes may not be a great source of zinc and iron. Eating a more plant-based diet? You may want to supplement your iron intake, according to a new study.

We'll leave you with this sweet response from reader Julie K. about the best gift she's ever received: My Dad bought me a 6 month old Arabian filly when I turned 13 years old. She was my best friend going through the teen years. I probably don't even realize how much she taught me. She had a magic power to make me feel that all was ok when I felt overwhelmed. I had her till she died when she was 25 years old. Some of my best memories are of my Dad and I riding our horses in the late summer evenings. Thank you for that gift Dad. ❤️ See you on Friday!

Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon!     This edition was powered by lunchtime walks.   View in browser Did a friend send you this email? Subscribe here. To see all newsletters, click here. Privacy    |    Unsubscribe © 2022 Healthline Media 1423 Red Ventures Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707