Other articles about this same study noted that people who drank “moderately” were no MORE likely to die prematurely than abstainers. And clearly certain other factors seem to drive health. From the article, “Moderate drinkers tend to be moderate in all ways. They tend to be wealthier, are more likely to exercise and to eat a healthy diet, and are less likely to be overweight. They even have better teeth, scientists say.” So it seems that staying healthy in all sorts of ways is beneficial; it’s not super clear that having a moderate amount of alcohol really has much benefit/harm for your health. So if moderate number of drinks helps you to be more social (clearly a huge health benefit) or relax and let go of stress (another obvious health win), I’m surmising it’s a win. Whereas over indulging is clearly never a win.