Do most centenarians drink alcohol? The Surprising Link Between Moderate Consumption and Longevity

Oct 18, 2025 3 min read •

longevity senior care Healthy Aging

Studies on some of the world's longest-lived populations, particularly those living in so-called 'Blue Zones,' have shown that moderate and regular alcohol consumption is a common practice. This surprising finding addresses the question: do most centenarians drink alcohol?

Quick Summary

Many centenarians in specific, well-researched longevity hotspots, known as Blue Zones, regularly consume moderate amounts of alcohol, often red wine with food and in social settings. This practice, however, is part of a larger, healthier lifestyle and is not a sole cause of their longevity, sparking ongoing research and debate.

Key Points

Not Most, But Many: While not universally true, many centenarians in certain longevity regions like the Blue Zones do drink alcohol moderately and regularly as part of their lifestyle.
Context is Key: Their drinking is typically part of a larger, healthier pattern involving social interaction, a plant-based diet, and stress reduction, not an isolated habit.
Moderation over Excess: The consumption observed is moderate (1-2 drinks daily) and often wine-based, consumed with meals and company.
The Causal Debate: Scientific consensus suggests that moderate drinking is a marker of a healthier lifestyle rather than the direct cause of longevity, with some recent studies casting doubt on any health benefits.
Look at the Whole Picture: Longevity is the result of a holistic approach encompassing diet, exercise, social connections, and stress management, with moderate alcohol being just one component for some.
Not a Recommendation for All: Health experts do not recommend that non-drinkers start consuming alcohol for health benefits, citing potential risks and conflicting research.

Exploring Centenarian Habits: Beyond the Basics

Studying centenarians, those living to 100 or older, provides valuable insights into healthy aging, highlighting the interplay of genetics, lifestyle, and environment. While genetics play a part, the daily habits of these long-lived individuals are particularly interesting, especially the unexpected finding that many consume alcohol regularly.

The Blue Zones and Moderate Drinking

Research in 'Blue Zones' – areas with high concentrations of centenarians, including Sardinia, Ikaria, Okinawa, Nicoya Peninsula, and Loma Linda – reveals common lifestyle patterns associated with longevity. Notably, in four of the five Blue Zones, moderate alcohol consumption is a consistent practice. For instance, Sardinians often drink Cannonau, a red wine rich in flavonoids. The key is the way it's consumed: typically one to two small glasses daily, savored with food and in social settings, emphasizing community and relaxation. Loma Linda, predominantly inhabited by Seventh-day Adventists, is the exception where alcohol is generally abstained from.

The Nuance of 'Moderate' Consumption

Emphasis is placed on 'moderate' consumption; Blue Zone residents avoid excessive drinking. This daily ritual often contributes to social connection and stress relief, both linked to longer lives. Research, such as the Netherlands Cohort Study, has indicated a potential association between consuming a small amount of alcohol (5–<15 grams daily) and a higher likelihood of reaching age 90 compared to abstainers. However, the study cautioned against using this as a reason for non-drinkers to start, due to the known risks of alcohol.

What Science Says: Correlation vs. Causation

The scientific view on alcohol and longevity is debated. While some older observational studies suggested a 'J-shaped curve' implying a benefit for light-to-moderate drinkers, this has faced scrutiny. Criticisms include 'abstainer bias,' where the reasons for not drinking (potentially existing health issues) are not fully accounted for, which can make moderate drinkers appear healthier. Separating the effects of moderate drinking from other healthy habits prevalent in these populations – like plant-based diets, physical activity, and strong social ties – is challenging; these other factors likely contribute more significantly to longevity. Many health authorities, including the World Health Organization, are increasingly cautious, suggesting there is no safe level of alcohol consumption due to its links to cancer and other health problems.

Centenarian Lifestyles: A Holistic View

The alcohol consumption of some centenarians should be seen as one component within a broader healthy lifestyle. Their longevity is not attributed to alcohol alone, but to a combination of factors:

Diet: Many follow largely plant-based diets, rich in whole foods, and low in processed items and sugar.
Activity: They maintain consistent physical activity through daily tasks like walking and gardening.
Stress Management: They incorporate stress-reducing practices, such as napping or socializing.
Social Bonds: Strong connections with family and community are vital for their well-being.
Purpose: A sense of purpose provides motivation and reduces stress.

A Comparative Look: Centenarian Lifestyles


Aspect	Blue Zone Centenarian (Sardinia/Ikaria)	Average Western Lifestyle (Comparison)
Alcohol Consumption	Moderate (1-2 glasses/day of red wine), often with meals and friends.	Often includes weekend binge drinking or higher daily intake.
Diet	Largely plant-based, unprocessed foods; rich in legumes, vegetables, and olive oil.	Higher in processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.
Physical Activity	Natural, regular movement like walking, gardening, and household tasks.	Often requires dedicated gym time, may include long periods of inactivity.
Social Life	Strong, close-knit family and community ties; regular social engagement.	Higher rates of social isolation and loneliness, especially in older age.
Stress Management	Built-in routines like napping, happy hour with friends, or prayer.	Often involves less effective coping mechanisms, leading to chronic stress.

Conclusion: The Bigger Picture of Longevity

While many centenarians in specific regions do consume alcohol, it is in moderation and integrated into a healthy lifestyle rather than being a standalone factor for longevity. The evidence emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach encompassing diet, physical activity, social connections, and stress management. For individuals who do not drink, initiating alcohol consumption for health benefits is not advised due to potential risks and the lack of strong scientific support for such a practice. The lifestyle patterns observed in centenarians offer valuable lessons on well-being that extend far beyond any single habit. For more details on Blue Zones, you can visit the official Blue Zones website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many centenarians in specific Blue Zones, such as Sardinia, drink red wine like Cannonau. It is consumed in moderation, usually one to two small glasses daily, and is often enjoyed with a meal and in a social setting with family and friends.

This is a subject of debate. While some older studies showed a link between moderate drinking and increased longevity, newer research suggests this correlation may be due to other healthy lifestyle factors common among moderate drinkers, not the alcohol itself. Many health organizations now state there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.

No, alcohol is not the 'secret' to a long life. While some centenarians drink, it is part of a holistic, healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and effective stress management. Focusing on these other factors is more reliably linked to longevity than moderate drinking alone.

Abstainer bias refers to a flaw in some studies where non-drinkers are compared with moderate drinkers, but the reasons for abstaining are not considered. Some abstainers may have quit drinking due to prior or existing health problems, which can skew results and make moderate drinkers appear healthier by comparison.

Absolutely not. Health experts and studies strongly advise against starting to drink alcohol for any potential health benefits. The risks associated with alcohol consumption, including increased cancer risk and potential for abuse, are well-documented.

Extremely important. For centenarians in Blue Zones, drinking is often a social and ritualistic activity that brings people together. Strong social connections are a cornerstone of longevity, and the act of sharing a drink with friends and family is tied to stress reduction and a sense of community.

Some studies, like the Netherlands Cohort Study, found that wine intake was more consistently associated with a higher probability of reaching age 90, particularly in women. However, the key was still moderate intake, and other studies on liquor and beer were less conclusive or showed different effects between sexes.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.