Episode 6: Dr. Tim Stockwell – Spirit Science, Debunking Myths of Moderate Drinking

In this episode of the Enjoy Life Healthier™ podcast, host Jason Kam speaks with Dr. Tim Stockwell, a renowned professor and scientist at the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research. They discuss the latest scientific research on alcohol's health risks, why common beliefs about "moderate" drinking are being debunked, and the alcohol industry's powerful influence on public policy.

Dr. Stockwell shares insights from his long career, explaining how mainstream scientific opinion on alcohol has completely flipped. He reveals why the World Health Organization now advises there is no safe level of consumption and classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, in the same category as asbestos and tobacco. Dr. Stockwell breaks down the "French Paradox," explaining how biased comparisons in older studies created the false impression of health benefits and why, when corrected, these benefits "evaporate" for wine, beer, and spirits alike.

Takeaways

• Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization, putting it in the same category as asbestos and tobacco.

• The "French Paradox"—the idea that red wine is good for heart health—has been debunked by newer, more accurate research.

• The cancer mortality risk from a single alcoholic drink is roughly equivalent to that of a single cigarette.

• Previous studies showing health benefits were flawed because they compared moderate drinkers to "unhealthy abstainers."

• When study flaws are corrected, the apparent health benefits disappear for all types of alcohol, including wine, beer, and spirits.

• Binge drinking is significantly more harmful than steady, moderate consumption and cancels any potential minor benefits.

• The new, science-backed approach to alcohol consumption is that "less is best," as risks begin even at low levels of drinking.

• Younger generations are drinking less, with theories pointing to changes in socialization due to the internet and economic pressures.

• The alcohol industry actively lobbies against public health policies like warning labels, standardized drink information, and price increases.

• A person's genetic makeup, such as having the "flushing response," can significantly increase their cancer risk from alcohol.