Raise your glasses—moderate drinking might just give your immune system a little boost! A study from 2013 out of Oregon Health and Science University has revealed some intriguing findings on this topic. Yes, you read that right. Science is on our side, folks.
In this study, researchers worked with rhesus macaque monkeys, whose immune systems are surprisingly similar to ours—and, like us, these monkeys exhibit a range of drinking habits. Some are the sophisticated types who might enjoy a glass of wine with their dessert, while others resemble Uncle Bob, who can’t resist a cold six-pack on holidays. There are weekend warriors who indulge in margaritas with nachos, and then those who seem to be swimming in Jägermeister. In essence, you can imagine a wild party among these monkeys, with some discussing philosophy over martinis and others sneaking sips of vodka when they think no one is looking.
The researchers injected these monkeys with smallpox (a bit extreme, don’t you think?) and then vaccinated them to gauge their immune responses. They had a control group and a drinking group, letting the chips fall where they may. I won’t get into the ethics of animal research, so let’s just move on.
What’s fascinating is that the heavy drinkers—those who were downing shots and making questionable life choices—showed a weaker immune response to the vaccine compared to their sober counterparts. So, if you’re the type to hit karaoke night after a few too many drinks, maybe it’s time to reconsider.
However, the moderate drinkers—the real champions of this study—those who enjoyed the occasional drink to celebrate their monkey victories, actually had a better immune response! They were compared to the teetotalers, who were just sitting there, sipping on sugar water and having no fun whatsoever.
From this study, I took away a few key points:
- There are dedicated researchers out there working hard for humanity.
- I had to look up what “moderate drinking” really means, and let’s just say that week after November 8 was a little rough.
- Why did it take me three years to discover this study published in Vaccine magazine?
- How does one determine when a monkey is tipsy? Aren’t they already doing backflips and tossing things around? Can they even throw shade when drunk? I have so many burning questions!
- I may have underestimated how amusing a career in science could be.
- Are those heavy-drinking monkeys getting any help? I’m genuinely concerned for them!
- I can sleep a bit easier tonight knowing that a glass of wine while indulging in some binge-watching is okay.
In a world where we could all use a little good news, the idea that moderate drinking might enhance our ability to fend off colds is certainly uplifting. So, here’s to your health—cheers!
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