There is no doubt about it. Drinkers live longer than non-drinkers.

Even though heavy drinking is associated with higher risk for cirrhosis and several types of cancer (particularly cancers in the mouth and esophagus), heavy drinkers are less likely to die than people who have never drunk. One important reason is that alcohol lubricates so many social interactions, and social interactions are vital for maintaining mental and physical health. As I pointed out last year, nondrinkers show greater signs of depression than those who allow themselves to join the party.

Related articles

• Drinking Alcohol Increases Life Span (blisstree.com)
• A Little Drinking Cuts Death Risk for Older Adults (nlm.nih.gov)
• Science Wins Again: Heavy Drinkers Live Longer [Drinking] (deadspin.com)
• Why Nondrinkers May Be More Depressed (time.com)