When researchers say that drinking more leads to good health in women, you can bet that a toast is in order. It might be hard to believe at first, but a study in a journal published by the Public Library of Science has found a connection between moderate drinking in your 50s and better health in your 70s.

The study was composed of 13,984 women who answered surveys concerning their eating and drinking habits in midlife. The results of the surveys were then matched with the women’s health at age 70. What you are about to read might astound you.

According to the study led by Harvard researchers, women who consumed at least one alcoholic beverage (approximately 15g or half an ounce) per day were 19 percent more likely to enjoy good health at age 70 than women who did not drink at all. Those who enjoyed two drinks a day were 28 percent more likely to have good health.

However, before you head out to the nearest bar to chug down your drink of choice, take note: While it seems like the more drinks you have, the higher your chances of maintaining good health, it doesn’t mean that midlife alcoholics get a free pass. The study revealed that the way women allocate their drinks in a specific span of time also has an impact on women’s health at age 70.

Women who spread out their alcohol consumption through a span of a week appeared to have better chances at good health than women who consumed the same amount in just two to three days. Despite this, women who drink still appear to have better chances than women who don’t drink.

Still, the study does not say that drinking is solely responsible for women’s good health. In no way does it push that drinking is good for everyone. Other factors, like having a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a balanced weight, and exercising regularly also have a hand in women’s overall health.

Want to read more articles about maintaining good health? Try these:

• Healthy Options: 10 Substitutes for High-Carb Foods
• Tipid Tips: 5 Low-Cost Healthy Foods
• 15 Healthy Foods That Help Reduce Stress
• 12 Tips for Keeping Your Family Healthy

(Photo source: sxc.hu)