Is moderate alcohol consumption really beneficial?

Humans have always consumed fermented beverage — for thousands of years. And arguments about the merits and demerits of drinking alcohol have always been around. What is not without doubt is that alcohol is both a tonic and a poison. If taken in moderation, there appears to be some health benefits. If consumed beyond certain limits, alcohol is certainly lethal. Medical literature is full of research data about alcohol and health. Moderate drinking appears to reduce some cardiovascular risks, improve cognition, and even reduce the risk of Type 2 Diabetes. But there is a thin line between moderate drinking and heavy drinking. If this line is crossed, alcohol becomes a major health hazard, with evidence linking it to some cancers, chronic liver disease, heart disease and avoidable deaths related to abuse and addiction.