A recent federal analysis of alcohol's health effects has cast doubt on the previously held belief that moderate drinking offers significant benefits. The report, issued this week, indicates that even one drink per day can increase the risk of liver cirrhosis, esophageal cancer, oral cancer, and various types of injuries for both men and women. Notably, women are at a higher risk of developing liver cancer but have a lower risk of diabetes compared to men. Additionally, while daily light drinking reduces the likelihood of blood clot strokes, occasional heavy drinking negates these potential advantages.
The document, prepared by an external scientific review panel under the Department of Health and Human Services, is part of two assessments influencing the upcoming U.S. Dietary Guidelines update. For decades, the government has recommended a limit of two standard drinks per day for men and one for women. However, this recommendation may be reconsidered in light of new findings.
In December, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine reviewed data supporting moderate drinking as linked to fewer heart attack and stroke deaths, and overall lower mortality rates compared to abstaining from alcohol. Yet, some experts argue that the risks of moderate drinking, especially concerning cancer, have been understated. According to the American Cancer Society, cancer is the leading cause of death among people under 85.
In 2020, during the last dietary guidelines review, scientific advisers proposed lowering the recommendation to one drink daily for both genders. This advice did not make it into the final guidelines. The National Academies' analysis connected moderate drinking in women with a slight but significant rise in breast cancer risk, though insufficient evidence tied alcohol to other cancers.
This month, the U.S. Surgeon General, citing growing scientific evidence, called for alcohol labels to include cancer warnings similar to those on cigarettes. The latest report underscores that any level of alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, which rises with higher drinking levels. Drinking is associated with a higher risk of death from seven types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, liver, and cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus. Both sexes face these health risks, but women are more prone to developing alcohol-linked cancers.
The report emphasizes that the risk of dying from alcohol-related conditions begins at low levels of average use. Higher consumption levels correlate with progressively greater mortality risks. Individuals who consume over seven drinks weekly face a one in 1,000 chance of dying from an alcohol-related condition. This risk escalates to one in 100 for those consuming more than nine drinks per week.
In the heart of New York City, all-night diners serve as unique sanctuaries where diverse crowds converge. These establishments, open around the clock, cater to a wide array of patrons—from service members celebrating their last night before deployment to musicians lost in dance routines. Each diner transforms with the rhythm of the city, adapting its ambiance and menu to meet the varied needs of late-night visitors. However, despite their significance, these iconic eateries are facing increasing challenges. Rising costs, changing consumer habits, and the lingering effects of the pandemic have led to a decline in their numbers. According to recent data, New York has lost 13% of its 24-hour restaurants since early 2020. Yet, amidst this trend, some places like Kellogg’s Diner in Williamsburg have managed to reopen, bringing hope to those who cherish these midnight havens.
A Timeless Tradition Endures in Williamsburg
During the golden hours of a crisp autumn night, Kellogg’s Diner stands as a beacon for nocturnal New Yorkers. This historic establishment, which first opened its doors in 1928, recently underwent a transformation under new ownership. After a brief hiatus, it returned in September with a refreshed interior and an elevated menu crafted by chef Jackie Carnesi. The diner’s commitment to 24-hour service remains unwavering, addressing a critical void left by other closures. “The post-pandemic landscape saw many 24-hour spots disappear, creating a significant gap in the city’s nightlife,” Carnesi remarked. Her dedication to preserving this tradition reflects the deep cultural importance of these late-night refuges. Despite the challenges, Kellogg’s continues to thrive, offering solace to those seeking comfort in the wee hours.
As New York evolves, the resilience of all-night diners serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s enduring spirit. These establishments not only provide sustenance but also foster a sense of community among diverse groups. Their survival is crucial for maintaining the vibrant tapestry that defines New York’s nocturnal life. In a world that increasingly prioritizes convenience over connection, these diners remind us of the value of shared experiences and the comfort found in familiar spaces. They stand as testaments to the idea that sometimes, the best moments happen when the rest of the world is asleep.
In a remarkable exploration of personal transformation, renowned author Nnedi Okorafor delves into one of the most pivotal moments in her life. At the tender age of nineteen, she found herself in an unexpected and bewildering situation. Surrounded by vivid hallucinations induced by pain medication following spinal surgery, Okorafor faced a reality that would forever alter her path. As the effects of the medication wore off, the true gravity of her condition became apparent—paralyzed from the waist down due to nerve damage sustained during the procedure. This sudden loss of mobility marked not only a physical but also an emotional turning point for the once-vibrant athlete and aspiring medical student.
Okorafor's response to this profound challenge was nothing short of inspirational. Instead of succumbing to despair, she turned inward, embracing her boundless imagination as a sanctuary. From her hospital bed, she began crafting a narrative about a Nigerian woman who possessed the extraordinary ability to fly. This creative endeavor served as both an escape and a form of healing, allowing her to reimagine her identity beyond the confines of her physical limitations. Over time, Okorafor regained sensation in her legs and relearned how to walk. Her journey through adversity led her to pursue writing more seriously, eventually enrolling in writing courses that would set the foundation for her illustrious career.
Three decades later, with over twenty acclaimed books to her name, Okorafor revisits this transformative period in her latest novel, "Death of the Author." Through this deeply personal work, she reflects on the trauma of paralysis and the subsequent rebirth of her spirit. The story underscores the resilience of the human mind and the power of creativity to transcend physical boundaries. It serves as a testament to the idea that even in the darkest moments, there is potential for growth and renewal. Okorafor's narrative invites readers to explore the depths of their own imaginations, reminding us all that within each of us lies the capacity to rise above our challenges and soar to new heights.