Is One or Two Pegs of Alcohol Really Safe? Doctor Busts the “Healthy Drinking” Myth
- bySagar
- 20 Feb, 2026
Many people who drink regularly — or even occasionally — often justify the habit by claiming that “a little alcohol is good for health.” From casual social drinkers to red wine enthusiasts, the belief that moderate drinking offers benefits has been widely discussed for years.
However, a recent explanation by well-known medical expert Saurabh Sethi challenges this popular notion. In his latest video, the doctor clearly stated that no amount of alcohol can be considered completely safe from a health perspective.
“Safe Drinking” Is a Myth, Says Doctor
Addressing the common question — how much alcohol is safe — Dr. Sethi emphasized that alcohol, whether consumed in small or large quantities, carries health risks.
According to him:
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There is no scientifically proven health benefit of drinking alcohol.
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Claims that small amounts are good for the body are largely misleading myths.
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Choosing to drink may be a personal lifestyle decision, but it should not be done under the assumption that it improves health.
This statement directly counters the widely circulated belief that moderate drinking — especially certain types like red wine — is heart-friendly.
Even Small Quantities Can Harm the Body
Dr. Sethi warned that the damage from alcohol is not limited to heavy drinkers. Even occasional or low-volume consumption can negatively affect multiple organs over time.
Key potential risks include:
❤️ Heart Health Impact
Even small amounts of alcohol may:
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Weaken heart muscles
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Increase blood pressure
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Trigger irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
🩸 Blood Pressure Concerns
Regular intake, even in modest amounts, can gradually elevate blood pressure levels, increasing long-term cardiovascular risk.
🫀 Liver Damage Risk
Alcohol consumption is strongly linked to:
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Fatty liver disease
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Liver inflammation
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Liver cirrhosis in severe cases
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Potential need for liver transplantation in advanced stages
Medical experts note that liver damage can develop silently, often without obvious early symptoms.
Why the “Red Wine Is Healthy” Claim Persists
The belief that certain alcoholic drinks — particularly red wine — are beneficial has circulated for years due to selective research interpretations and popular media narratives.
However, many modern health reviews suggest that:
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Any minor compounds found in alcoholic beverages can be obtained from safer food sources.
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The risks of alcohol generally outweigh any perceived benefits.
Dr. Sethi stressed that people should not treat alcohol as a health supplement.
Personal Choice vs. Health Reality
Health experts broadly agree on one point: while adults may choose to drink for social or personal reasons, it should be done with full awareness of the risks.
Dr. Sethi’s key message:
If you drink, do so knowing it is a lifestyle choice — not a health practice.
Bottom Line
The idea that one or two pegs of alcohol are harmless — or even beneficial — does not hold up strongly under medical scrutiny. According to experts, no level of alcohol consumption can be called completely risk-free.
For those focused on long-term wellness, limiting or avoiding alcohol remains the safest approach.






