Several studies involving both animals and humans demonstrate that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with a lower risk of gallstone disease. Epidemiologic studies of humans suggest that people who consume moderate amounts of wine have about a 30% lower chance of developing gallstones than do people who either consume no alcohol or who consume higher amounts of alcohol. Since the average American has about a 10% chance of developing gallstones at sometime during their life; this means that moderate alcohol drinkers only have a 6% to 7% chance of developing gallstone disease, compared to non- drinkers and heavier drinkers. More research is needed in this area.
SOURCES
Schumsinger WH, et al.; Alcohol Protects Against Cholesterol Gallstone Formation; Annals of Surg 1988; 207: 641-647.
Diehl AK, et al.; Coronary Risk Factors and Clinical Gallbladder Disease: An Approach to the Prevention of Gallstones; American Journal of Public Health 1987; 77: 841-845.