Alcohol Boosts Bone Health In Women

A recent study has found that the key to keeping a women's bones healthy is moderate alcohol consumption.  

The study was published in August 2012 issue of the journal Menopause.  The researchers examined 40 healthy postmenopausal women under the age of 65, the age at which the risk for developing bone fractures and osteoporosis begins to rise.

All the women in the group were defined as moderate drinkers consuming one-half to two drinks per day.  A glass of alcohol in the United States is considered 5 oz.  Most of the women in the study preferred wine.

The researchers asked the women to abstain from drinking any alcohol for two weeks and then resume drinking again for two days.  The researchers found that during the time of abstinence their bone health deteriorated.  Specifically, the scientists saw negative changes in measures of bone formation and restoration.  When the women began to consume alcohol again, healthier levels were restored.

Lead researcher Dr. Urszula Iwaniec of Oregon State University stated "drinking moderately as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a good diet and exercise may be beneficial for bone health, especially in post menopausal women."

Conclusion: Women who had two drinks per day had healthier bones.

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