That Glass of Merlot May Not Actually Be Good for Your Health

The popular belief that moderate alcohol consumption provides health benefits may be wrong, according to an analysis that debunks the idea that light drinking prevents heart disease and prolongs life.

Earlier studies contained flaws that exaggerated the health benefits of booze, according to a report in the British Medical Journal. Once corrected, significant positive results were seen in only one group: women over 65 who drank sparingly. And even that result may be problematic, the authors said.