Wisconsin expert reacts to new U.S. dietary guidelines on alcohol
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel • • health
Key Points:
- The new 2025 U.S. dietary guidelines advise Americans to "consume less alcohol for better overall health," removing previous specific limits that defined moderate drinking by gender.
- This change departs from decades of guidelines since 1980, which recommended one drink per day for women and two for men as moderate consumption.
- Health experts, including Maureen Busalacchi of the Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project, express concern that removing clear drinking limits may confuse the public and hinder efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm.
- Alcohol is linked to numerous health risks, including liver disease and increased cancer risk even at moderate levels, prompting calls for clearer public warnings and education.
- Despite acknowledging alcohol's social role, experts emphasize that socializing does
