Even Light Drinking May Alter Brain Blood Flow, Study Finds

A US study of 45 healthy adults links higher alcohol intake—even within what’s considered low levels (≤60 drinks/mo for men, ≤30 for women)—to reduced brain perfusion and thinner cortex, with brain blood flow showing a stronger association than cortical thickness. While not proving causation, the findings imply cumulative brain effects from low-level drinking and align with calls to re-evaluate “safe” drinking guidelines; self-reported intake and cross-sectional design limit conclusions. The study adds to growing evidence that even modest drinking may impact brain health, published in Alcohol (2026).