Mediterranean drinking pattern can lower risk of functional limitations in older age

In these two prospective cohorts of older Spanish adults, a moderate intake of alcoholic beverages was associated with a lower risk of limitations in mobility, agility and instrumental activities of daily living.

Several studies have linked a moderate intake of alcoholic beverages to a lower frequency of limitations in activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), in walking 2-3 blocks and climbing stairs. However, no previous investigation has assessed this association in older adults from Mediterranean countries with characteristic drinking patterns.

Spanish scientists investigated individuals aged 60 years and older from the Seniors-ENRICA cohorts in Spain. The Mediterranean drinking patternThe Mediterranean diet, which includes moderate consumption of wine, is considered ... was defined as moderate alcohol intake, with a preference for wine  (≥80% of alcohol consumed as wine) and drinking only with meals. The participants were followed up for 3.5 years. After adjusting for possible confounding factors, moderate drinkers had a lower risk of limitations in mobility, agility and IADL compared to non-drinkers.

The authors concluded that certain drinking patterns, particularly moderate wine consumption and the Mediterranean drinking patternThe Mediterranean diet, which includes moderate consumption of wine, is considered ... are associated with lower risk of functional limitation in older adults from a Mediterranean country.

León-Muñoz LM, Guallar-Castillón P, García-Esquinas E, et al. Alcohol drinking patterns and risk of functional limitations in two cohorts of older adults. Clin Nutr. 2017 Jun;36(3):831-838.

For more information about this article, read the scientific abstract here.