The New Dietary Guidelines and Alcohol: What the Science Says

The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) are out, and people are already debating what’s good, what’s bad, and what it all means for our plates. One hot topic? Alcohol. 

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is waving a big red flag, saying the guidelines don’t fully reflect the science linking alcohol to cancer risk. Here’s what you need to know.

What the DGAs Say About Alcohol 

For men, the guidelines allow up to two drinks per day, and for women, one drink per day on drinking days. That might sound “moderate,” but according to AICR, even one drink a day can increase cancer risk. However, this is not a guarantee, check out our interpretation on a recent study here.

Why the AICR Thinks This Is a Problem 

1. Alcohol Is a Carcinogen

There’s strong, consistent evidence that alcohol consumption increases the risk of several cancers — breast, head and neck, esophagus, and colorectal, to name a few. Even low levels of drinking can raise risk. Mechanisms include DNA damage from acetaldehyde, hormonal changes like higher estrogen, and oxidative stress.

2. The Advisory Committee Recommended Stricter Limits

The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee suggested that men follow the same limit as women — no more than one drink per day on days alcohol is consumed. The final DGAs ignored this, keeping a “two drinks for men” rule. AICR argues this could lead to unnecessary extra cancer risk. 

3. Messaging on Alcohol and Cancer Is Too Vague

While the guidelines mention “limit alcohol,” they don’t clearly link even small amounts to cancer. AICR points out that public awareness of this risk is very low — many people don’t realize that even one drink can increase their chance of certain cancers.

This feels very cherry-picking when they place such strict focus on other things with less research to support such as dyes and artificial sweeteners. They’ve said alcohol is a “social lubricant” and helps people have a good time which is healthy. But, couldn’t the same be said about a pack of Skittles?

The Takeaway

This doesn’t mean you can never or should never have a glass of wine, or a margarita, or cold foamy beer. But it does raise a red flag for the overall evidence backing the new guidelines.

It’s important to assess your relationship with alcohol and consume in moderation, if you choose. Focus on including other healthy habits such as load up on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and plant-based proteins. These choices are proven to lower cancer and heart disease risk.