Influence of different types of alcoholic beverages on self-reported health status

Aims: This study investigated the effect of the consumption of wine, beer and spirits on self-reported health status. Methods: A sample of 14 950 individuals was randomly selected from the total population register in Sweden in 1996-97. Their self-reported health status and consumption of wine, beer and spirits were assessed at face-to-face interviews. Results: Of 11 606 individuals in the age range 16-84 years, 2659 reported a poor health status. Consumption of wine was associated with a decreased odds ratio (OR) (0.56; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50-0.63) for poor, self-reported health status, as compared with non-users. Consumers of fortified wine, beer, strong beer and hard liquor had a similar, self-reported health status to that of non-consumers. The results were adjusted for age, sex and total alcohol consumption. Adjustments for body-mass index, smoking, educational level and physical activity did not change the results. The relationship between poor self-reported health status and intake of wine had a form similar to a 'U' with the lowest OR among individuals consuming small to moderate amounts of wine. Conclusions: The study shows that a moderate consumption of wine was associated with a positive effect on the self-reported health status. Factors related to lifestyle may be underlying causes.