By Colin Kenny, GP, Dromore
This paper sought to provide an updated summary of studies that investigated the relationship between alcohol consumption and the risk of type 2 diabetes. A total of 38 unique studies were identified and data were collected on categories of alcohol consumption and the associated risk of type 2 diabetes. The data suggested a reduction in the risk of type 2 diabetes at all levels of alcohol intake less than 63 g/day, with risks increasing above this threshold.
The investigators divided the data by gender and showed a difference between the sexes in the relationship between alcohol consumption and the risk of type 2 diabetes. They suggested that this reduction in risk might be specific to women, with no reduction in risk evident at any level among men. It thus appears that reductions in diabetes risk among moderate alcohol drinkers may be confined to women, and also to non-Asian populations. They also speculated that reductions in risk might have been overestimated by studies, which used less healthy former drinkers.
To access the full publication, click here (log-in or purchase required)
