Three Alcoholic Drinks Per Week Cut Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Half

Moderate alcohol consumption may lower your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. According to study results published in BMJ.com, women who consumed more than 3 alcoholic drinks a week on a regular basis for at least 10 years cut their risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in half compared to those who did not drink.

The study adds to existing evidence that moderate alcohol consumption may not be harmful and may actually be beneficial in protecting against rheumatoid arthritis. The effect of more-than-moderate consumption is not known, however. While there have been previous studies that concluded moderate alcohol consumption lowers RA risk, there also were studies that found no link. In this study, researchers suggested the lower risk may occur because alcohol lowers the body's immune response.

Related Articles:

• Alcohol May Protect Against Rheumatoid Arthritis (2007)
• Alcohol Consumption Cuts Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk (2008)
• Alcohol May Reduce Severity of Rheumatoid Arthritis (2010)
• Alcohol and Arthritis Medications

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