THE DOCTOR'S CORNER
Holiday Cheer
by Dr. Timothy Grondin

Hi Folks: Alcohol consumption is rarely discussed in the doctor’s office because it’s controversial. But by now we’ve all heard that a glass of red wine is good for you, right? Well how true is that really? As it turns out, it’s very true and the scientific studies steadily pour in as proof - 80 proof that is…Just kidding.

Studies (by sober scientific types) have found that adults can lower their risk of serious health conditions by having one to three drinks daily (one to two for women). Alcohol reduces the risk of coronary artery disease by lowering the levels of LDL (bad fats) and raising the HDL (good cholesterol).

A study published in the American Heart Association’s Journal found that moderate alcohol consumption cut the risk of stroke in half. Harvard researchers found moderate alcohol intake reduced the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) by one-third and reduced the risk of coronary disease by 37 percent.

Further, alcohol is not only beneficial for the cardiovascular system but the brain as well. A number of studies involving the elderly found that moderate intake of alcohol reduced the risk of Alzheimer’s by 75 percent and dementia by 80 percent. WOW. Folks, these are quality studies. This isn’t garbage science. As I said, you don’t hear much about it because it’s controversial.

Alcohol can even on occasion be helpful in the case of the common cold. Those drinking in moderation were found to be 85 percent more resistant to several strains of the common cold virus. Obviously, alcohol does have powerful antiseptic properties. We all know that.

So what’s the recurring theme in my article? Moderation. One to three drinks per day. You can’t save 'em up through the week and then pour in 10 drinks on Friday night!

Finally, there’s another factor concerning alcohol that I need to mention. If you think you have a fungal infection …drinking any alcohol is a bad idea. Whatever your health condition, the alcohol will make it worse. In fact, if alcohol does aggravate whatever your health condition is, that’s a pretty good sign that you’ve got a fungal overgrowth problem.

So, in conclusion, the science clearly shows a little holiday cheer in moderation is okay.

Happy holidays and peace to all.

Dr. Grondin

• • • • •

If you have any questions or suggestions for future topics, feel free to e-mail Dr. Grondin at docgrondin@advnet.net, or call his office at 810-984-3344.

Dr. Timothy Grondin started his career as a medic (corpsman) in the Navy where he examined, diagnosed and treated people for minor illnesses under the direction of an M.D. When Grondin left the military, he became a nurse and worked on the medical/surgical ward at Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital for a number of years. Though he began taking pre-med courses at Oakland University, Grondin changed his mind, choosing to become a Chiropractor instead. Grondin graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1988, and has been in practice in Port Huron since 1989.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided here is intended for educational purposes only. It is not meant to either directly or indirectly diagnose, give medical advice or prescribe treatment. Please consult with your physician or other licensed healthcare professional for medical diagnosis and treatment.