Alcohol and Radiation

Having just gotten back from a weekend with family and a golf outing with college friends, I thought it apt to revisit the idea of alcohol consumption. 

As we discussed before the best and newest research is saying that "There is no safe dose of alcohol". Much like radiation, it should be avoided unless there is a justification of a bigger gain from your exposure to it. 

I get a DEXA and CCTA on many of my patients, exposing them to radiation, it is well worth the risks because we were able to obtain extremely useful clinical information. 

Do I get a DEXA every month? Absolutely not. The clinical insight falls well below the value proposition of even the minor radiation dose involved.

Much like the DEXA and CCTA, I would encourage you to think about your own alcohol use in this context. 

Should I have this wine? 

Well, will it improve your social life or your relationship more than it will hurt longevity? 

If so, pour, drink, and enjoy!