IT’S THE TELOMERES –

Aug. 3, 2022 – The observational analysis found drinking more than 29 units each week was most detrimental. Compared to individuals enjoying six units weekly, this level of consumption was associated with telomere shortening equivalent to two years’-worth of aging. In layman’s terms, 29 units is equivalent to around 10 250ml-sized glasses of wine (with 12 percent alcohol by volume, ABV). If you’re a beer drinker, this equates to about 17 330ml-sized bottles (at five percent ABV). 

Meanwhile, in the MR analysis, drinking 32 units each week (as opposed to 10 units) was linked to telomere shortening akin to three years of aging. Those with a genetic disposition for AUD also showed a similar level of telomere damage.

However, those who enjoy an occasional tipple with dinner probably don’t need to worry too much: the association between alcohol consumption and telomere length was only significant among participants who drank more than 17 units (around six 250ml glasses at 12 percent ABV) per week.

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