Collective source out of MD "I COULD GO FOR ONE AFTER THE BULLS*IT LATELY!!!" U.S. Loosens Alcohol Guidance, Drops Recommended Limits: ‘Alcohol Is a Social Lubricant’ — Just ‘Don’t Have It for Breakfast’ Dr. Mehmet Oz says he’s comfortable with Americans drinking alcohol in moderation, arguing that small amounts can help people “bond and socialize.” During a White House briefing on Wednesday, Jan. 8, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) administrator spoke to reporters alongside HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Trump administration introduced new nutritional guidelines. The updated guidance changes how alcohol is addressed. It no longer spells out separate daily limits for men and women, and it also removes language warning that even moderate drinking can raise the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and death. Instead, the recommendations now broadly advise adults to “consume less alcohol for better overall health,” and to avoid drinking if pregnant, taking certain medications, experiencing addiction, or if they have a family history of addiction. Asked about the shift, Oz said drinking alcohol “judiciously” in small amounts—“usually in a celebratory fashion”—can be acceptable. “Alcohol is a social lubricant that brings people together,” he said. “In the best-case scenario, I don’t think you should drink alcohol, but it does allow people an excuse to bond and socialize, and there’s probably nothing healthier than having a good time with friends in a safe way.” Oz also suggested that among people who “live the longest,” alcohol is sometimes part of their diet. “So there is alcohol in these dietary guidelines but the implication is, don’t have it for breakfast,” he said. “This should be something done in small amounts.” #maryland