Vol. The Problem: Drinking to get drunk Our headlines have been dominated this been sailing close to wind over the last year. A ‘friend’ turns up and regales Cindy with tales of year, or infact for several years by our survey of global public opinion of different Hank’s wild bachelor past. The strapline is binge culture, whereby 18 - 25 year olds industries commissioned by Heineken reflects ‘knowing when to stop is a good thing’. £2 million in particular may drink very little, or public suspicion of beverage company funds have been earmarked for the UK. nothing during the week and then go out ethics/motivation rating it at -18%, below the chemical, oil and pharmaceutical companies. The fact that two of the most important global specifically to ‘get plastered’ on a Friday Only tobacco rated lower. beverage alcohol companies are putting social and Saturday night. This culture crosses responsibility at the heart of their policy is a good all classes, income groups, the sexes The industry and its associations have worked start and combined with initiatives for better and most ethnic groups. It is a culture hard over the last few years to emphasise the design in pubs, unbreakable glasses, better that is particularly strong in Scandinavia, importance of patterns of drinking and the public transport at night, better trained bar staff the UK, Ireland and to a lesser degree in context of drinking. This separates the idea of together with imaginative and interactive the US. However even Mediterranean drinking, and specifically drinking in moderation education and publicity perhaps the damaging countries where traditional patterns of - at meal times, in a civilised context from the (both to the industry and the participants) pattern drinking have been much healthier have damaging patterns of excess over the weekend. of binge-drinking can be turned around. become implicated with the emergence Research shows clearly that is extremely damaging, a survey carried out by of the ‘botellon’ in Spain. A botellon is a Finland’s national Public Health Institute tracked boozy party held in a public place, where 5000 men over 10 years and found that drinking often underage participants drink in an 6 or more beers in one session increased your unregulated environment. risk of dying young by more than half. After 10 In this Issue years the death rate of binge-drinkers was 75% Hence bingeing and under -age drinking have higher, the main killer being heart disease become strongly linked in the public and official followed by liver disease. How to change this Alcohol sponsorship and advertising eye, as has the association of alcohol and ingrained behaviour, where getting drunk is to be regulated in Ireland Page 3 violence and anti-social behaviour - all of which rated higher than socialising or enjoyment will give drinking alcohol a reputation the industry not be easy. However, the UK and US has must disassociate itself from. The industry was succeeded in turning drink-driving into a social Spain embodies Mediterranean diet given an ultimatum by Commissioner David taboo over the last twenty years, so there is no as part of new wine law Page 4 Byrne at the WHO conference on alcohol and reason why - with imagination, determination young people in Stockholm in January 2001 to and of course funds, a current social norm can show by the end of this year that it could put be deemed ‘uncool’ in time. Diet and exercise are effective in strong measures in place to prove that its controlling high blood pressure advertising does not appeal to those under age Allied Domecq has paved the way for promoting . Page 5 and that its branding does not promote a culture moderation as a key part of its marketing and of excess or of sexual prowess, or legislation advertising with the launch of Tia Lusso last will follow. The WHO conference in May 2002 year, whose sensible drinking strap line is ‘ you on self regulation of again just know to drink in moderation’, similarly Wine and the Gastrointestinal tract called on governments to regulate advertising Ballantynes whisky message is ‘play better, play By Harvey E. Finkel, M.D. Page 8 and was heavily critical of the industry. Most in moderation’. The tremendous success of Tia recently the British Medical Association has Lusso, leaping to number two in the cream called for a ban on alcohol adverts due to ‘the liqueur market in 12 months, showed that a Moderate Alcohol Intake as Part of a worrying increase in binge drinking among the responsible approach to marketing and product Healthy Diet and Lifestyle by young’. launch has no ill effect on sales was an important Elisabeth Holmgren Page 10 lesson.They have since extended messages to Action from individual countries, such as the Malibu and Makers Mark. Ukraine and most notably the traditionally liberal Ireland to stem the increase in binge-drinking The news that Diageo have now launched a by introducing a raft of measures ( see report sensible drinking campaign in the UK ( it has on page 3) including the regulation of advertising already run in the US) through such a main Volume 12 No.2 July/August 2003 has sent shockwaves around the world and stream brand as Smirnoff is excellent news. The provided a much needed wake up call to some witty campaign which features a couple having companies whose advertising campaigns have dinner to celebrate their engagement when a

www.aim-digest.com www.drinkingandyou.com

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AIM Digest PO Box 2282 BATH, BA1 2QY, UK News from around the world Tel: (44) (0)1225 471444 Fax: (44) (0)1225 427444 Thailand France e-mail: [email protected] As part of the public health policy currently being Web sites: www.aim-digest.com Several organizations and politicians are calling drafted for 2004-2008, the French government www.drinkingandyou.com for tighter controls on alcohol advertising in aims to reduce alcohol consumption by 20% and Annual Subscriptions to AIM response to rising alcohol consumption in the make less prevalent in French Single subscription to AIM Digest on- country over the past 10 years. Ampon Jinda, line(published bi-monthly) £100 or $175 society. This is part of a 100- point draft bill, director of the National Health System Reform Corporate subscription level of £500 or $875 which was to be presented to the cabinet in July. for AIM Digest on-line and the monthly Office (HSRO),expressed support in June for a highlights. proposal by Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister, Although any attempt at reducing alcohol misuse Please make cheques/drafts in British pounds Chaturon Chaisang, to ban all radio and TV ads is laudable, achieving it by seeking to enforce a sterling or dollars payable to AIM Digest at for alcoholic drinks between 5:00am and blanket reduction in drinking rather than by the above address or email 10:00pm. The Thai Cabinet has now approved via:[email protected] targeting specific areas of misuse- specifically plans to ban TV and radio advertising for drink-driving in France, is generally considered Peter Duff – Executive Chairman, alcoholic and energy drinks between 5am and tel: (44) (0)1225 471444 to be an inefficient means to an end comments 10pm ffrom 1 October and will also include a La Journee Vinicole. email: [email protected] complete ban on cinema advertising. Helena Conibear – Editorial Director, tel: (44) (0)1300 341305 The proposals also include a ban on alcohol email: [email protected] Romania Elisabeth Holmgren – Director US being promoted by actors, singers and Operations sportsmen and women.The ban seems unlikely The Romanian Government has increased tel: 001 925 9343226 to affect sports broadcasts when drinks excise tax on alcohol, cigarettes and oil. The email: [email protected] sponsors are involved provided certain new rates will come into force from the first of Ann Hansford – Medical Research Assistant conditions are met. “Sports sponsoring using July this year. Excise duties on ethyl alcohol and tel: (44) (0)1300 341305 logos is still allowed as long as the alcohol firms distilled alcoholic beverages will rise to 150 email: [email protected] do not say drinking is good for people,” Prime Euros (US$172.8) per hectolitre of pure alcohol, Sherry Webster – Communications Manager tel: (44) (0)1225 471444 Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, said after the from the current 108.4 Euros. email: [email protected] Cabinet meeting. In addition, alcohol sales Gareth Davies – Website Manager would be banned at petrol stations and Beer tax will also increase as will wine tax with convenience stores in response to rising levels sparkling wines and special wines bearing SOCIAL, SCIENTIFIC AND MEDICAL excise duties of 2.80 euros per hl per alcohol COUNCIL of drink-driving. HSRO statistics indicated that COUNCIL degree. But excise duties on non-sparkling Peter Duff – Chairman UK 60% of road fatalities were drink-related. Jinda wines will be reduced to 0.30 euro per hl per Helena Conibear -Editorial Director UK said that alcohol consumption had more than Elisabeth Holmgren - Director US USA doubled over the past 10 years to 1.604 billion alcohol degree from the current 0.55. Morris Chafetz, MD USA litres per year. Prof. R Curtis Ellison USA Dr. Harvey Finkel USA UK Russia Prof. Dwight B Heath USA The UK Portman Group’s independent com- Dr. Arthur Klatsky USA plaints panel has condemned FCUK spirit fruit Russian Brewers’ filed a lawsuit against tax USA Dr. Alfred de Lorimer USA vodka drink for appealing to the under 18’s. The authorities in May for publicly advocating an Prof. Oliver James UK panel has also asked UK retailers not to stock excise duty hike on beer. OAO Baltika Brewery, Christopher Jarnvall Sweden the controversial Roxxoff ‘viagrapop’, which ZAO Ochakovo and ZAO Vena have all filed a Dr. Philip Norrie, MB BS Australia claims to increase libido. In another ruling, the Prof. Jean-Marc Orgogozo France suit to the Moscow Court of Arbitration. France Panel upheld complaints against the website Stanton Peele USA www.wkd.co.uk which has strong sexual con- Harvey Posert USA Vladimir Gubanov, head of department of Dr. Erik Skovenborg Denmark tent and was deemed to appeal to under 18’s in alcohol and tobacco taxation indicated in April Creina S. Stockley Australia support of the vodka based drink WKD. that the January 25% rise in exercise duty was Dr. Thomas Stuttaford UK Ukraine needed in order that the government can Lilyane Weston UK receive more in tax revenues. Baltika, the Dr. Elizabeth Whelan USA The Ukrainian parliament passed a law in July country’s largest brewer, is owned by Baltic The publisher takes reasonable care to ensure the accuracy that bans most alcohol and tobacco advertising Beverage Holding, a joint venture between of quotations and other information contained herein, but on television, radio and in print media. The move is not responsible for any errors or omissions. Opinions and Carlsberg A/S and Scottish & Newcastle PLC. recommendations quoted herein are usually excerpted, follows calls from deputies that both substances Russia’s second-largest brewer Sun Interbrew digested or condensed, may be edited for continuity, and are are damaging to health. The bill imposes a blan- only part of the opinions and recommendations expressed Ltd, a unit of Belgium’s Interbrew S/A, hasn’t in the original sources, which should be consulted for details. ket ban on tobacco advertising and restricts al- joined the other Russian brewers. © AIM Digest 2001. All rights reserved. Material may be cohol advertising on television and in printed reproduced with attribution to AIM. media as well as on billboards and transport. Published by: AIM Digest, PO Box 2282, BATH, BA1 2QY, UK 33

Alcohol sponsorship and advertising to be World cancer report regulated in Ireland Alarmed that Ireland has become one of the gallons of pure alcohol each year. The US The World Cancer Report was launched in April hardest-drinking countries in Europe, the Irish average was 1.77 gallons.The surge coincides and provides a global overview of the trends government announced at the end of May that with Ireland’s quick-changing fortunes in the and developments in cancer incidence, mortality it plans to require health warnings on alcoholic 1990s, when it went from an economic and causality. It also sheds light on WHO’s drinks and limit advertising of alcoholic drinks. backwater of Europe with double-digit cancer control strategies and on a variety of Prime Minister Bertie Ahern insisted in a speech unemployment to a booming economy and prevention measures thought to be effective. to European brewers in Dublin that he believed tourism. Alcohol consumption is identified as belonging young people were exposed to saturation to a series of causes of cancer. The World marketing of alcohol, which he said was fuelling The UK government is considering a new Cancer Report said “There is an increasing a the “drink to get drunk” culture. Similarly, the set of regulations for alcohol advertising. recognition of the causative role of lifestyle Minister for Justice Michael McDowell. Speaking factors, including diet, physical activity, and at the Progressive Democrats annual Following a series of ads that breached both alcohol consumption”. conference in Galway, gave warning that tighter good taste and the guidelines of the industry’s legislation could be introduced to tackle the marketing regulator, the UK government is This report together with another IARC problem of public drunkenness. “It is already considering regulating all alcohol advertising, publication “Nutrition and Lifestyle: illegal for publicans to allow people to become current alcohol advertising attitudes will have Opportunities for Cancer Prevention” and the drunk on their premises and I am planning a to change radically to avoid a clampdown it joint WHO/FAO Expert Report on Diet, “Nutrition stricter enforcement of this law,” he said. states. and the Prevention of Chronic Disease” contribute to the general consultative process The government plans to ban alcohol ads from It will be difficult for some alcohol manufacturers that will culminate with the formulation of a buses,trains, cinemas and sporting events to deny that the government has a case. Global Strategy on Diet, Physical activity and involving young people, while no ads for beer Recently, some advertising agencies have been health, to be considered by the World Health pushing the limits of the law, using the loophole or other alcoholic beverages would be permitted assembly in 2004. before 10 p.m. on Irish television, currently such of creating very sexual adverts without an overt ads currently face few restrictions and Guinness link to the product. While this may not be a sponsors the national soccer squad and technical infringement, it has alarmed Direct Wine Shipment Heineken the rugby. Currently more than 10,000 consumers as well as groups such as Alcohol pubs serve a population of 3.8 million. Health Concern. The government is also beginning to break through in US warnings on beer, wine and liquor would require take notice and is proposing a new set of “A 139-page report released by the Federal approval from the European Commission, but regulations, including banning alcohol adverts Trade Commission will forever change the terms Ahern said he expected the EU’s support in before 9 pm. Currently the UK has some of the of debate on the direct shipment issue, and will tackling what he called “serious social problems most liberal alcohol advertising laws in Europe. have an extraordinary impact on state arising from greatly increased levels of alcohol However, the industry is keen to retain its legislatures and the federal courts in the months abuse.” Together, the commitments represent powers of self-regulation monitored by The ahead,” states WineAmerica President David as significant a shift in official attitudes to Irish Portman Group, which has shown that it is Sloane.“This report makes clear that the traditions as the government’s recent prepared to take strong action to discourage the interstate shipment of wine is beneficial to commitment to outlaw smoking in pubs. current trend. Recently, it ruled an alcopop from consumers, that states can and are effectively Anti-alcohol campaigners and Ireland’s major FCUK unacceptable due to the brand’s strong regulating such sales, and that the arguments pub owners association welcomed the moves, following among teenagers. Similarly, it has against direct shipment simply do not hold up as well as Ahern’s call for pubs to stop selling condemned the release of the controversial under scrutiny,” he continued. “Wine consumers sweet, heavy-alcohol “slammers” and ‘Roxxoff’, a new alcopop containing aphrodisiac and wineries all over America should know that “alcopops,” which appeal to novice drinkers. herbs and which is to be marketed as “creating their voices have finally been heard on this “These drinks encourage binge drinking among a generation of randy superbeings”. issue, and that the federal agency charged with young people which is fast becoming the curse safeguarding competition and protecting News that 12 alcoholics from Scotland plan to of modern society,” said Tadh O’Sullivan, chief consumers has firmly come down on our side,” executive of the Vintners Federation of Ireland, sue drinks companies for failing to warn them he concluded. adequately of the dangers of consuming alcohol which represents 6,000 pubs - many of which The report entitled, “Possible anti-competitive has further fuelled the debate “Any litigation sell the drinks.The Irish have long been Barriers to E-Commerce: Wine” stems from a would have to be based on whether or not the stereotyped as heavy drinkers, but past surveys public workshop held last October by the FTC, product causes harm and whether or not the have suggested the reputation was undeserved which examined state barriers to e-commerce producer has a duty of care to customers,” said and Ireland was actually one of Europe’s more for a number of popular consumer products, Ross Harper, their solicitors. The case brings moderate drinking nations. In the past decade, including wine.The FTC press release can be new exposure re health warnings on alcohol however, figures show that this has changed. found at http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2003/07/ containers in the UK. The British Medical World Drinks Trends 2002 placed Ireland wine.htm. The full report via http://www.ftc.gov/ Association has repeatedly called for them to second only to Luxembourg in the EU in per- os/2003/07/winereport2.pdf. capita volume of alcohol consumed, at 2.85 be made mandatory. 4

No clear link between alcohol and Parkinson’s A drink a day improves disease overall heart health While some research suggests alcohol drinkers they have an underlying metabolism (genetic People who drink one drink a day — wine, beer have a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease than or as a result of a toxic insult early in life) that or spirits — show significantly better elasticity abstainers, a study published in May suggests makes these behaviours particularly of their body’s arteries, an important measure no clear association between drinking and unrewarding to them,” the researchers explain. of cardiovascular health, results of a new study Parkinson’s disease with the exception of If this hypothesis is correct, then drinking, suggest. “We thought only red wine helps, but moderate beer intake which might offer some smoking and consumption should all we found if people drink one beer or one unit of protection. Because no alcohol other than beer appear to reduce the risk of developing hard liquor a day, they also have improved was tied to a lower Parkinson’s risk, researchers Parkinson’s, Dr. Alberto Ascherio, a study co- arterial elasticity, better than nondrinkers,” said suspect that a beer ingredient other than alcohol author also at Harvard, comments“Our result Dr. Reuven Zimlichman of Wolfson Medical might bestow the benefit. Their report is does not support that,” Ascherio said in an Center and Tel Aviv University in Israel. The published in the on-line edition of the Annals of interview. “Indirectly,” he added, “it supports the research was presented via the American Neurology. idea that caffeine and something in cigarette Society of Hypertension. smoke is protective.” Currently, there are Over the past few decades, researchers have ongoing studies to look at the effects of caffeine When arteries lose elasticity, they fail to relax debated whether cigarettes, coffee and alcohol in people who already have Parkinson’s, as the heart pumps blood. This causes a rise in can help stave off Parkinson’s disease, a Ascherio noted. the systolic blood pressure, something movement disorder that arises from the loss of Zimlichman calls a “terrible predictor” of future brain cells that produce the chemical dopamine. The researchers looked at data from two large, strokes, cardiovascular disease and heart Several recent studies have produced strong long-running U.S. studies the Nurses’ Health attacks. The researchers also found that evidence that cigarette smokers and caffeine and the Health Professionals’ Follow-up moderate drinkers had pulse rates that were consumers have some protection against Studies. After examining information from nearly significantly lower than those of nondrinkers. Parkinson’s, and researchers believe it’s 89,000 women and 47,000 men, the “There’s been lots of study of pulse rates and biologically plausible that tobacco smoke and researchers found “little association between the risk of disease,” Zimlichman said. He noted caffeine might shield brain cells from the total alcohol consumption and Parkinson’s that higher pulse rates are associated with an damage that marks the disease. But there is disease incidence,” according to the report. increased risk of disease and death. another possibility. Some scientists have When they broke the data down into different suggested that the absence of these addictive types of alcohol, people who drank moderate In comparing wine drinkers with drinkers who behaviours-caffeine consumption, smoking and amounts of beer showed a 30% lower risk of favour other alcoholic beverages, the drinking might be a sign of a certain kind of Parkinson’s. But, the authors write, “because researchers observed that beer and spirits personality, according to the authors of the new this lower risk was not found among wine or drinkers had slightly higher blood pressure than study, led by Dr. Miguel A. Hernan of the Harvard liquor drinkers, it is possible that some wine drinkers. But all drinkers had blood School of Public Health in Boston. “It has been components of beer, other than (alcohol), may pressure within normal ranges. The researchers hypothesized that people who are destined to reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease.” studied 243 healthy people between the ages of 15 and 80 who volunteered to fill out develop Parkinson’s disease have a SOURCE: Annals of Neurology 2003;54.Alcohol characteristic personality- moralistic, law- consumption and the incidence of Parkinson’s disease questionnaires and be tested at clinics in seven abiding, conscientious, risk averse, that leads Miguel A. Hernán, MD, DrPH 1 et al . Email: Miguel A. European countries. They excluded people who them to avoid novelty seeking behaviours or that Hernán ([email protected]) drank more than one drink a day and adjusted their findings for age because arterial elasticity Spanish wine laws embodies promotion of wine commonly gets worse with age. as part of the Mediterranean diet When asked if this study means non drinkers The wine law passed by the Spanish The law has taken eight years to agree and should start drinking, Zimlichman pointed out government in June encourages the active sweeps away the pre-democracy laws of 1970 that heavy drinking itself can cause high blood promotion of wine as part of a healthy diet. allowing more flexibility for producers. There are pressure.“Whenever you recommend drinking, Under the Ley del Vino - the biggest shake-up two new levels of DO: at the top end, above you have to consider the possibility that in wine laws since Franco - the Government will DOCa (Denominacion de Origen Calificada) is somebody will like it too much and over-drink provide funds for local and national information Vinos de Pagos. Then below DO is Vinos de and cause damage to his health,” he said. “But campaigns, which should promote wine as an Calidad con Indicación Geográfica, or VCIG, the if someone has a high risk of cardiovascular integral part of a Mediterranean diet. The law equivalent of the Italian IGT or French VDQS. disease, I recommend to my patients that they makes it clear that wine will be promoted as Consejos Reguladores will still make the rules, drink one glass of red wine a day.” Although his distinct from any other alcoholic beverage, and but a new, autonomous body will be created to study showed similar benefits for beer and hard should include recommendations for police their application. The Federación Español liquor as for wine. responsible consumption. Growers and del Vino has welcomed the new law. ‘A new producers are encouraged to use environmental phase opens for a struggling sector which will and sustainable farming methods. Funds are permit it to compete with rivals operating in very available for research and development projects deregulated environments. It is an important at a local and national level. advance on the law of 1970.’ 55

Diet and exercise are effective in controlling high blood pressure

New research suggests that an overhaul of participants took medications for hypertension. in weight. In the Established Plus DASH group, dietary and fitness habits to help prevent or Those in the “Advice Only” group each met with 34.3 percent lost 15 pounds or more, while in control high blood pressure is feasible with a registered dietitian at the beginning of the trial the Established group, 28.6 percent lost 15 proper coaching, contrary to the theory that too to discuss recommendations for weight control, pounds or more. The Advice Only group had many changes would be overwhelming and reduced sodium intake, physical activity and the only 6.2 percent lose 15 pounds or more. When ineffective for most people. The best results in DASH diet for lowering blood pressure plus participants took a treadmill exercise test, the the study were achieved when weight loss, salt printed educational materials. tests showed fitness increased significantly in restriction and exercise were paired with the both the Established and Established Plus DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Participants in both the “Established” and DASH groups. Hypertension) diet, which is rich in fruits, “Established Plus DASH”intervention groups set vegetables and low fat dairy products. goals to lose 15 pounds within six months, Those on the DASH diet also benefited from increase physical activity, lower sodium intake other potential benefits: prevention of The results of the study, conducted at Duke and limit alcohol to one or two drinks per day. osteoporosis from the high calcium content, University Medical Center, Johns Hopkins, The Established Plus DASH group also set prevention of some cancers from the high fruit Pennington Biomedical Research Center, and goals to increase fruit, vegetable and low-fat and vegetable content, and the prevention of the Center for Health Research, were published dairy intake and reduce saturated fat and total cardiovascular disease from the low fat content.” in the April 23, 2003, issue of the Journal of the fat. The Established group was given no American Medical Association. The study, called instructions on the DASH diet. During the initial Although the results for the Advice Only group PREMIER, is funded by the National Heart, six months of the trial, both groups met were not as striking as the other two, this group Lung and Blood Institute. frequently to reinforce behaviour modification. did better in losing weight and decreasing sodium intake than expected. Svetkey said this Current national recommendations for lowering During the first six months of the trial, all could be because motivated people usually sign blood pressure include weight loss, reduced participants in both the Established and on to participate in clinical trials, and may sodium intake, increased physical activity, Established Plus DASH groups significantly produce better results than could be expected limited alcohol consumption and DASH diet. The lowered their blood pressures in comparison to in the average population. DASH diet increases fruit, vegetable and low- the Advice Only group. The Established Plus fat dairy consumption, while limiting fats, red DASH group had the lowest prevalence of The long-term goal of the study, said Svetkey is meat, sweets and beverages containing . hypertension — cutting group members’ risk of to follow all the participants for an additional 12 No previous study has tested the ability of developing hypertension by 53 percent months (18 months total) to determine whether people to adopt DASH on their own or its compared to the Advice Only group. “At six the participants can stick with the diet and effectiveness in the ‘real’ world. And no previous months, we had 19 participants in the Advice exercise, and monitor blood pressure control. study has tested all the other recommendations Only group who had to begin anti-hypertensive The next phase in this series of research will for lowering blood pressure, either with or medication to control their blood pressures, focus on weight loss — specifically on how to without DASH, as an “all-in-one’intervention. compared to only two in the Established Group help people lose weight and keep the weight off and five in the Established Plus DASH group,” long-term. This new study, which is also funded The PREMIER trial enrolled 810 generally said Svetkey. “And both behaviour modification by the National Institutes of Health, began healthy people with above-optimal blood groups had a significant number of the enrolling participants in May 2003. The NHLBI pressure, including those with stage one participants reach their optimum blood press release is available at www.nhlbi.nih.gov/ hypertension (systolic BP140-159 mmHg and/ pressure.”All groups had an overall reduction new/press/03-04-22.htm or diastolic BP 90-95 mmHg None of the Coffee and alcohol for stroke victims.

In a study on rats, a coffee and alcohol findings were reported in the Stroke Journal of neuro-protective in animals”. Caffeinol can be combination know as caffeinol given within 3 the American Heart Association. safely administered to patients also receiving hours of an artery supplying blood to the brain traditional ‘clot-busting’ drugs used to treat being blocked was shown to reduce damage In the study on humans, lead by Professor strokes.Professor Grotta said a “randomised by up to 80%. It delivers the potency of 2 cups James Grotta, a team at the University of Texas placebo-controlled trial” was needed to of strong coffee and an , although gave the treatment to 16 females and 17 male determine the extent of caffeinol’s protective neither caffeine nor alcohol were protective on stroke victims with an average age of 71. The effect in humans. He is planning a study their own. Treating and looking after the 140,000 aim of this study was to see if they could safely combining caffeinol with thermo-cooling in stroke victims a year costs the NHS in Britain achieve the same blood levels of caffeinol that stroke patients. Other studies have suggested an estimated £2.3 billion. The experimental drug were achieved in the animal studies. Professor that cooling the brain might limit stroke damage. has been shown to be safe in a pilot study of Grotta said, “We discovered that we could use patients suffering from ischaemic stroke where even lower doses than we used in the animal Source: www.stroke.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/ a clot blocks blood going into the brain and the studies and achieve the blood levels that were abstract/01.STR.0000068170.80517.B 6

Serve-wise and Alcohol Focus Scotland Drink-wise from Sweden

Serve Wise (formerly known as SIPS) was in the amount, particularly in the terms of police In October the Swedish Spirit & Wine Suppliers developed with funding and guidance from the and accident and emergency time. A number (SSWS) will launch an initiative called Drinkwise. Scottish Office and enjoys continued support of licensed trade organizations support The aim is to get the general public to consider from the Scottish Executive to deal specifically ServeWise such as the Scottish Licensed Trade their alcohol behaviour. with underage drinking, drinking and driving, Association, Diageo UK ,the British From the beginning Drinkwise will consist of a criminal incidents and deaths/accidents related Entertainment and Dance Association, the website, among other with an interactive part to alcohol in Scotland. ServeWise is managed Leisure safety and Security Association. in which the visitor, by answering questionsand by Alcohol Focus Scotland, a charity, operating claims, will be told what kind of alcoholconsumer on a non-profit basis. The importance of Advice and assistance is also offered by he or she is and the character of thistype of adequate training for all staff is increasingly ServeWise through its Advisory and Working consumer. SSWS concludes thatDrinkwise is being recognised by licensed trade, licensing Groups which include representatives from the one example of initiatives following the boards and the police. Many licensing boards Scottish Executive, the police, solicitors, publishing of a book, financed by the Public are now beginning to insist on training as a licensing boards, the licensed trade, as well as Health Institute, written by Sam Larsson at the prerequisite for the granting or renewal of a those from training/further education Karolinska Institute in Stockholm and Johan Lilja licence. perspective. These groups also assist at the Academy of Turku in Finland. They ServeWise in organising other types of training conclude that it is better to teach young people ServeWise aims to set a National Minimum and events, including annual events for licensing how to drink than to tell them not to drink at all - standard for all those involved in the sale of board members. it is better to discuss with them how to behave alcohol. In order to achieve this ServeWise with alcohol. offers short courses (approx. 1 day or 2 half ‘Taster’ ServeWise courses for the licensing The authors also say that prevention days) each covering licensing law, alcohol and board members can be provided where licensing programmes so far have been too people skills. This is on two levels -ServeWise boards wish to encourage training amongst “propagandistic”. The non drinking message has Plus for managers, licensees and experienced licensees and staff. It is recommended that a been repeated endlessly and has not been staff (covering the law in more depth and ‘Fit and Proper Person’ policy is set up including effective. The alcohol policy target should be to includes issues relating to management) and training requirements. Several Boards have get young people to use weak alcoholic drinks ServeWise for general staff. Both the courses gone on to develop policies after attending a and to drink in moderation. Maybe it is not are available in On and Off-Licence versions.At ServeWise taster event. realistic to believe young people will abstain but present there are just over 40 Centres they ought to get a more conscious view on throughout Scotland that can deliver ServeWise Both ServeWise and Alcohol Focus Scotland alcohol and drugs, the authors say. The book courses, located at colleges of further education, are still very much organisations in growth. From has been financed by the Public Health Institute. or training organizations or other types of last year ServeWise has almost doubled its organisations (including solicitors). There are training numbers and Alcohol Focus Scotland two pilot centres in the South. The University of is undergoing considerable expansion with Cardiff in conjunction with the police-based several newly created posts - including a Diageo to target binge TASC project (Targeting alcohol-Related street Gender Issues Network Officer (who for the next Crime) have held several courses and in 3 years will focus on women alcohol issues), a Manchester, there is a multi-agency team User Support officer (to assist those The drinks giant, Diageo, is planning to launch including the licensed trade, the police and experiencing alcohol problems and to set up net a campaign aimed at reducing the problem of Alcohol and drug services Manchester, which works) and a NetWork support officer who will binge-drinking in the UK. has just begun to run courses. assist with communications and development of the network of affiliated organisations, Diageo has asked its principal advertising Assisting in the setting up of the centres is the primarily the 30 Local Councils on Alcohol agencies, J. Walter Thompson, Abbott Mead ServeWise Central Office. All trainers undertake throughout Scotland which provide counselling Vickers BBDO, Bartle Bogle Hegarty, Mother a 2-day Trainer’s Course and receive the and related services. and Miles Calcraft Briginshaw Duffy, to pitch for ServeWise Trainer’s Manual (containing course the campaign. ServeWise, Central Office 166 Buchanan Street, material, instructions on delivery and a specially Glasgow.G1 2LW. TEL: 0141 572 6703. designed video). All trainers’ are subject to on In the light of the increase in binge-drinking, Newsletters are produced by ServeWise and going verification and continuous professional drunkenness and alcohol-related violence, information can also be found on the Internet development requirements. political support for further curbs on alcohol [email protected] advertising has been growing. The industry body ServeWise believes that the training must be which speaks on alcohol policy, The Portman relevant, user-friendly, as well as assessable Group, has called for companies to introduce and affordable and is confident that there will campaigns promoting responsible consumption. be a reduction in the number of accidents and The UK government has called for consultation crimes resulting from the misuse of alcohol on with a wide range of groups, including alcohol licensed premises and consequently a lessening companies, on how violence in and outside pubs might be reduced. 77

Conference on social

Proof of age standards scheme (PASS). responsibility

        

The long established and well supported Proof 

  

of Age Card set up by the Portman Group has 

  

been accepted into the British Retail 

   

Consortium’s new Proof of Age Standards    

Scheme (PASS). As from June 2003 the new  card, complete with hologram will be in circulation. The Amsterdam Group (TAG) are organising a PASS is an umbrella accreditation system, conference on Social Responsibility on the 17th audited by the Trading Standards Institute and September at the Renaissance Hotel in any card that is presented and bears the PASS Brussels. The aim of the conference is to logo has met the PASS standards and contains present concrete actions undertaken by Social accurate and reliable information. This will help Aspects Organisations (SAOs) and retailers make an informed decision on whether stakeholders involved in the distribution of the to allow a purchase. The Portman Group has alcoholic beverages to reduce the negative relaunched the card bearing the PASS hologram impact of alcohol consumption on individuals and Portman Group 18+ logo. The Underage and society through: Drinking and the illegal Purchase of and information campaigns to Report commissioned by the Nicholson promote sensible drinking, in particular towards Committee shows that 84% of 15 year olds young people placed drinking of alcohol as a common place activity. Of the young persons questioned 49% Responsible advertising and marketing of currently purchased alcohol illegally, 33% from alcoholic beverages by industry and retailers to licensed grocers, 24% from off-licences and comply with the Recommendation on Alcohol another 24% from pubs or bars. Drinking by Children and Adolescents adopted by the Commission in June 2001. For Details, please contact Carole Brigaudeau The Wine may protect against adenocarcinoma of the Amsterdam Group Rue Wiertz 50/28 B - 1050 Bruxelles T: + 32.2.401.61.66 F: + lung 32.2.401.68.68 M: + 32. (0) 486.117.199 The subject of numerous prospective and case (women) and a food frequency form including [email protected] control studies has been the possible existence 64 food items were obtained by use of a of an independent effect of alcohol use in the questionnaire during interview. International Conference aetiology of lung cancer. As alcohol correlates Total alcohol use was not associated with risk strongly with smoking, possible residual of adenocarcinoma of the lung (OR 1.2, 95% on Alcohol, Drugs and confounding has been a particular concern. CI 0.6-2.1). Beer consumption did not correlate Results of several prospective studies were not Traffic Safety, T 2004 with adenocarcinoma risk (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.3- adjusted for smoking therefore hampering their 1.6). In contrast wine consumption showed a interpretation. This study by De Stefani E, In August 2004, many of the world’s experts on marginal protective effect (OR 0.4, 95% 0.2-1.1) Correa P and Deneo-Pellegrini H et al, was drugs and alcohol will gather in Glasgow for the while the use of spirits (predominantly cana undertaken to examine in detail the relationship 17th International Conference on Alcohol, Drugs derived from sugar cane and grappa derived between alcohol use and the risk of and Traffic Safety. from grapes) was associated with a 40% adenocarcinoma of the lung increase in risk of lung adenocarcinoma. The Conference will explore developments in Between July 1998 and July 2000, all incidents new policies and technologies to counteract of lung adenocarcinoma that were admitted to The results of the study suggest that wine alcohol and drugs problems in the context of the 4 main hospitals in Montevideo, Uruguay consumption has a protective effect against the road traffic safety. In particular, it will explore were considered eligible for examining the roles development of adenocarcinoma of the lung, the following key areas of Driver Characteristics, of diet, drinking and smoking in the aetiology of while spirits are a moderate risk factor for this Pharmacology and Toxicology, Epidemiology, this malignancy. Subjects for the study were 160 cell type of the lung cancer Rehabilitation, Prevention, Driving and cases with newly diagnosed adenocarcinoma Performance, Police Enforcement and Work of the lung with 520 hospitalised controls with a Source. De Stefani E, Correa P, Deneo-Pellegrini H Related Transport Issues. et al. Alcohol intake and risk of adenocarcinoma of condition unrelated to drinking or smoking. To submit an abstract or register interest in the lung: a case-control study Uruguay. Lung Cancer the conference please visit the conference Information about socio-demographic variables, 38 (2002) 9-14. occupational history, smoking history, drinking website at www.ICADTS2004.com Tel: +44 (0) history, height and weight 5 years before the 141 434 1500 Fax: + (00 141 434 1519 Email: interview, menstrual and reproductive history [email protected] 8

WINE AND THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT By Harvey E. Finkel, M.D. promoting reflux. blocks of proteins), perhaps calcium and zinc, leading to complex malnutrition.. of the liver of any cause, including abuse of alcohol, is often complicated by Iron absorption may increase with drinking, not formation of oesophageal varices, dilation of necessarily harmless, for excessive iron may veins of the lower oesophagus, a distinct risk of injure the liver. Excessive drinking often leads life-threatening haemorrhage. The stomach is to diarrhoea. both a key actor and a target in the life of ingested alcohol. Alcohol dehydrogenase, the That wine, especially, and other alcohol- enzyme that first metabolizes alcohol, so containing beverages help prevent gastro- neutralizing it, is secreted by the gastric mucosa, intestinal infections has been known for a very the lining of the stomach. When ample alcohol long time. Claret, drunk in British army messes slows the emptying of the stomach, alcohol in India, was held to be “a sovereign dehydrogenase has more time to attack the preventative against the prevalent cholera”, just alcohol. one of a number of similar observations here and there over the years. More recently and Women’s stomachs contain about 60 percent more scientifically, wine has been demonstrated as much alcohol dehydrogenase as do men’s, to be an effective inhibitor of a trio of fearsome likely the chief reason for the long-observed bacteria, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and lesser tolerance of women for alcohol and the Shigella, causes of “traveller’s diarrhoea” and recommendation that their safe and healthy worse, typhoid and related diseases, and portion should be about half of men’s. So, when bacillary dysentery, respectively. Researchers a couple share a bottle of wine at dinner, he suspect that the operative benefactor is one, or should get two-thirds. more, of wine’s polyphenols. Wine and spirits, Wine goes in at the mouth, much to our delight, but not beer, consumed with raw oysters then trickles through other parts of the body. Binge drinking of high-proof beverages may lead contaminated with hepatitis A virus, which enters Let us go then, you and I, to explore the to acute , inflammation of the stomach, via the gastro-intestinal tract, were associated tortuousness of the gastro-intestinal tract, taking sometimes accompanied by haemorrhage. with a reduced risk of infection.The bacterium along divers potables to observe their effects. Wine and beer are innocent, and may be Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) looms, much to the protective. astonishment of the medical profession, a Most GI adversities associated with drinking malign superstar of the first magnitude. It resides beverages containing alcohol come with excess, The intestines, large and small, are not just inert in the stomachs of those infected. Who could and virtually all are caused by alcohol in pipes conveying food and the products of have imagined that this organism causes much particular. In some cases, the effect of wine is digestion to their fate. Their linings actively of chronic gastritis, a large majority of peptic different from that of other drinks—watch for secrete digestive enzymes and absorb the ulcers, and a substantial proportion of cancers them. The ineffable morning-after distress nutrients made available by digestion. Their of the stomach? H. pylori is now being implicated following indiscretion is poorly understood and muscular walls churn and propel the contents as a promoter of our most deadly disease, is transient, but unpleasant consequences of to enhance the chemical reactions of digestion. atherosclerosis, cause of heart attacks, strokes, heavy drinking may be lasting and as severe The muscular motility of the intestine may be and other catastrophes. Drinking, especially of as cancer. reduced in alcoholics, thereby unpredictably wine, appears to help eliminate H. pylori. In a altering function and allowing toxic bacterial direct study, less than one-third as many The all-too-common chief complaint of the overgrowth. An odd converse has been drinkers as abstainers were infected. oesophagus (gullet) is heartburn, caused by observed recently in overweight mice, whose welling up of acid material from the stomach. obesity slows intestinal motion. The bacteria that H. pylori infection is also associated with Two major determinants of such acid reflux are grow to excess as a result produce alcohol, and reduced activity of alcohol dehydrogenase in the the quantity of acid secreted by the stomach these mice develop liver abnormalities similar stomach. After eradication of the infection, and the propulsion of the stomach acid the to those of obese humans and to alcoholics. alcohol dehydrogenase normalizes within two wrong way, upward into the oesophagus instead The lesson may be that obesity and alcohol are months. Alcohol is the only component of wine of downward into the intestine. Wine may collaborators in causing liver disease—take that has been clearly shown to increase the risk stimulate heartburn: it stimulates acid production heed. of some cancers, and then only when abused. by the stomach. Alcohol does not. Here is a rare example of an unfavourable effect of wine’s Surprisingly, light-drinking laboratory rats have Chronic heavy drinking, particularly special attributes, presumably polyphenolic exhibited enhanced liver regeneration after accompanied by abuse of tobacco, is antioxidants. Alcohol, however, especially in injury compared to rats who abstained or who associated, in the gastro-intestinal tract, with heavy dose, may relax the lower oesophageal drank more. Heavy doses of alcohol may impair increased cancer risk in the mouth, throat, valve (sphincter) that is supposed to seal off intestinal absorption of nutrients, including oesophagus, and perhaps the upper stomach. the oesophagus, and disorder motility, thereby thiamin, vitamin B12 , amino acids (the building 99

Alcohol colon and rectal cancer

Inconclusive reports have raised the question a study by Dr. Morten Gronbaek of the National non-drinkers. But the type of alcohol consumed of a slight increase in risk of cancer of the Institute of Public Health in Copenhagen, has had a significant bearing on rectal cancer risk. pancreas. The data relating beer and spirits to found that heavy drinkers (especially non-wine Those who drank 14 or more units of beer or a possible slight increase of risk of colorectal drinkers) significantly increase their risk of spirits a week were over 3.5 times as likely to tumours are conflicting and confusing. contracting rectal cancer.The findings are based develop rectal cancer as non-drinkers. Yet those on a population study of over 29,000 Danish who drank the same total amount of alcohol, Might moderate drinking protect against cancer? men and women aged between 23 and 95 but who included around a third or more of wine Early indications suggest the answer might be Cancers that originate in the colon and rectum in their intake were less than twice as likely to “yes”. A number of studies has demonstrated are the fourth most commonly diagnosed develop the disease.The authors point out that that wine, in particular, possesses several cancers in the U.S., and represent the second- wine drinkers tended to be better educated and properties that would tend to prevent or inhibit leading cause of death from cancer. to take more exercise than beer or spirit cancer, no doubt through the actions of its Approximately one-third of the cases of drinkers, so there may be other healthier lifestyle antioxidant compounds. Epidemiologic research colorectal cancer are actually cancers of the factors at play. There are no obvious reasons has revealed substantial reduction of risk of rectum, Gronbaek said. Their weekly intake of why alcohol should apparently be more cancers of the oesophagus and upper stomach beer, wine, and spirits was assessed, as were damaging to the rectum than the colon, but the and colon and rectum in wine drinkers as other factors likely to influence bowel cancer reasons why wine seems to exert its protective compared to non-drinkers. risk, such as how much they smoked, weighed, effect most likely lie in resveratrol, which is found and took regular exercise. Men were more likely in both grapes and wine. In essence, past experience and current than women to be heavy drinkers, and heavy research indicate that abuse of alcohol risks drinkers were more likely to be smokers and to Previous research indicates that this chemical damaging the gastro-intestinal tract at several weigh more than light drinkers. damps down the cellular processes involved in points, but moderate wine consumption risks the promotion and growth of cancerous cells. only a little heartburn, while possibly leading to During a monitoring period of almost 15 years, The lack of a relationship between alcohol major health benefits, not to mention gustatory 411 cases of colon cancer and 202 cases of drinking and colon cancer risk is also somewhat pleasures. rectal cancer were reported among those of a mystery, according to Gronbaek. studied. Alcohol seemed to have little influence Whether wine is a poison, a medicine or a over the risk of colon cancer, but there was a “The tissue is rather similar in the two parts of nourishment is a matter of dosage. — clear association between rectal cancer risk and the organ — colon and rectum — and one might Paracelsus . the amount of alcohol consumed. Those expect the same mechanism in developing the Harvey E Finkel M.D is Clinical Professor of Medicine drinking more than 41 units of alcohol a week disease,” Gronbaek said. However, he added at Boston University Medical Centre and is a member had twice the risk of developing the disease as that previous studies have also found that of AIM’s Social, Scientific and Medical Council. alcohol has an effect on the rectum but not the colon. SOURCE: Gut 2003;52:861-867

30th Alcoholic Drinks 2003 - Conference Brewers of Europe 3rd of Health, self-regulation may give way to legal Beer and health controls on the advertising of alcoholic drinks. Speakers include: Rita Clifton, Chairman, symposium Interbrand Hamish Pringle, Director General, The Brewers of Europe are holding a conference IPA,Wendy Darlington, Brand Marketing on the benefits of moderate beer consumption Director, Diageo Plc Jaspar Shelbourne, Global on the 15th October at the Residence Palace, Creative Director, JWT Alan Mitchell, Journalist Brussels. The World Advertising Research Centre will be Mike Spurling, Director, The Informer A Special holding the eighth annual Alcoholic Drinks Panel on Social Responsibility features: Andrew th The event is chaired by professor Oliver James conference in central London on Tuesday 30 Brown, The Advertising Association Hugh of the University of Newcastle and includes September. The conference will be chaired by Burkitt,, The Marketing Society Leanne Riley, presentations on alcohol and weight, moderate Nick Kendall, Group Strategy Director, Bartle Scientist, World Health Organisation, Jean drinking and well being and nutritional aspects. Bogle Hegarty. Coussins, The Portman Group,Helmut Wagner, The Amsterdam Group Chris Searle, For more information, please visit This year’s programme will concentrate in Executive Director, Bacardi Martini particular on the urgency and importance of www.brewersofeurope.org or email social responsibility issues for the alcoholic For details, contact: Sarah Miller ,World Advertising [email protected] drinks industry. With the UK Government in the Research Center Farm Road, Henley-on-Thames, middle of developing a national alcohol harm- Oxon. RG9 1EJ. Tel: 0044 (0) 1491 418 646 Fax: reduction strategy conducted by the Prime 0044 (0) 1491 418 600 Mail: [email protected] Minister’s own Strategy Unit and the Department Web: www.warc.com/conferences 10

Moderate Alcohol Intake as Part of a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle: - A Look at Alcohol Inclusive Nutrition Concepts from Around the World by Elisabeth Holmgren

1.Introduction To learn more about the US Dietary Guidelines The Mediterranean Diet Pyramid message on alcohol, please visit www.oldwayspt.org/pyramids/med/ As part of cultural traditions and well balanced www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines and for other p_med.html lifestyles wine, beer and spirits consumption has authoritative links on alcohol please also visit been a common staple in diets around the world. the AIM links page on the gateway to sensible In acknowledgement of such practices, groups drinking and health site via www.aim- of nutrition experts have included the moderate digest.com consumption of alcohol as an optional component of various dietary guidelines and Alcohol-Inclusive Nutrition food guides such as: the Mediterranean, Asian, Latin American and Vegetarian Pyramids. Here we outline the key scientifically based nutrition messages in these pyramids.

The outlined alcohol-inclusive dietary pyramids are part of an effort by Oldways Preservation & Exchange Trust, a non- profit education group that is dedicated to preserving traditional eating patterns with the goal to improve consumer knowledge and diets around the world. Oldways has prepared these concepts with prominent nutrition, medical, biomedical and communication experts from leading institutions such as the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the Harvard School of Public Health. Cardiovascular disease and cancer are leading causes of death in developed nations around the world, predominantly being associated with :stpecnoC ehT The Mediterranean Diet Concept diets high in animal fats. With that emerging scientific consensus, the Oldways pyramids all Long known for its healthy lifestyles and the emphasize fruits, vegetables, cereals and longevity of its people, the Mediterranean region pulses with little meat (animal fats) is also home of some of the most palatable and consumption. These nutrition concepts also The ‘Eatwise’ concept healthy foods on earth. Traditionally, wine has include wine, beer and spirits, which have shown been included as an integral part of its meals, to contribute to lower heart disease rates and The latest “Eat Wise” Pyramid, including “wine, and cross-cultural studies have reported improve longevity. beer and spirits in moderation” as part of a daily significantly lower risk of heart disease in Accumulating scientific evidence suggests that beverage recommendation was released at Mediterranean regions where alcohol is a daily moderate consumption of wine, beer and spirits January’s 2003 Mediterranean Diet Conference staple of a healthy diet and lifestyle. As the does not pose a health risk to the vast majority sponsored by Harvard School of Public Health preferred beverage in this region, wine is of consumers who choose to drink in and Oldways Preservation & Exchange Trust. specified as an option on “The Traditional moderation. AIM’s recommendations also This new pyramid is modelled on the original Healthy Mediterranean Diet Pyramid,” emphasise that adults should enjoy alcohol Mediterranean Diet Pyramid, which initially only developed by Oldways in cooperation with beverages in a sensible manner, preferably recommended wine in moderation, reflecting the scientists from the WHO in Europe and from around mealtimes or other responsible social cultural preference of the Mediterranean region. the Harvard School of Public Health. This settings. Moderation is the key to a healthy diet “This Eat Wise Pyramid is a visual guide to traditional diet is based on grains, including rice, and lifestyle, and this is reflected in several healthy living the Eat Wise way,” the polenta, bulgur and pasta, as well as legumes traditional nutrition concepts. accompanying text states. “It shows the and vegetables. It also includes fruits, cheeses, partnership of a balanced diet, plenty of water, yogurt and nuts along with the optional choice Consumers should follow moderation guidelines regular physical activity, and alcohol in of alcohol in moderation. Olive oil is given its such as those in the Dietary Guidelines for moderation that wise eaters know strengthen own category as a major source of mono Americans which define moderation as up to all their bodies’ functions.” An expert conference unsaturated fat, reflecting its important two drinks (12g) a day for men and up to one discussion emphasized the potential benefits for prominence in the region’s healthy cuisine. Daily drink a day for women; further, consumers all three beverages. Eat Wise Meal Ideas, physical activity, a factor contributing to health should avoid alcohol during pregnancy or when- shopping tips and recipes are outlined in a in the Mediterranean region and elsewhere, is ever it would put the individual or others at risk. special eating guide that can be ordered via the also included on this and all Oldways pyramids. Oldways website. 1111

The Asian Diet Pyramid The Latin American Diet Pyramid The Vegetarian Diet Pyramid www.oldwayspt.org/pyramids/asian/ www.oldwayspt.org/pyramidslatin/ www.oldwayspt.org/pyramids/veg/ p_asian.html p_latin.html p_veg.html

The“

The Latin American Concept acknowledges the nutritional and health benefits The Traditional Healthy Latin American Diet of this type of diet. For example, the Dietary The Asian Diet Concept Pyramid,” released in 1996, is based on the Guidelines for Americans have acknowledged traditional foods of Latin America. Unlike the such a diet as able to meet Recommended As Asian cuisine continues to become popular Americanized versions that tend to be high in Dietary Allowances (RDA) for nutrients. While in diverse regions of the world, characteristics salt and fat, this pyramid presents many healthy some vegetarians are prohibited from of Asian diets will continue to gain importance. eating options. It emphasizes daily consumption consuming meat and alcohol for religious In Japan and China, studies have found rates of beans, grains, tubers and nuts along with reasons, all alcohol beverages are included as for heart disease and many types of cancer to fruits and vegetables—staples in most Latin a choice because of the potential risk reduction be lower than those in the United States and American and Caribbean regions. Daily physical for heart disease and its cultural role as an the rest of the world. The centuries-old activity is integrated into the pyramid structure accompaniment to vegetarian eating. traditional Asian diet of rice, noodles, vegetables in recognition of the scientific consensus on the and fish is believed to be a significant contributor importance of exercise in maintaining good The Scientific Evidence to the documented lower rates for chronic health. Alcohol in moderation with meals is The nutritional and medical significance of disease in these populations. The “Traditional included as an option, and, as with other cultural the traditional Oldways Dietary Pyramids healthy Asian Diet Pyramid,” developed in pyramids, meats, sweets and eggs are at the was featured in “Medical News cooperation with scientists at Cornell University very top of the pyramid, in the “occasionally” Perspectives” of the Journal of the American and the Harvard School of Public Health, category to advocate a healthy and balanced Medical Association in 2000. The author incorporates these dietary patterns into the lifestyle that can reduce the risk for several pyramid format. Sake, wine, beer, and other highlighted the importance of well-balanced common diseases. beverages with alcohol in moderation, as well and nutritious diets as a potential disease as tea, are included as part of the pyramid prevention measure that could be because studies have shown that their The Vegetarian Diet Concept increasingly conveyed by physicians and consumption may play an role in reducing heart The unique “Vegetarian Diet Pyramid,” released healthcare providers to their patients. More disease risk and overall mortality. by Oldways at the end of 1997, serves as a recently, Greek and US scientists investigated model for healthy eating with meals built around the health effects of adherence to a vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes. Mediterranean Diet reported in the New England The pyramid also emphasizes daily physical Journal of Medicine in 2003: “Greater adherence activity, water consumption and the option of to the traditional Mediterranean diet is associated with a significant reduction in total “wine, beer and other alcohol” in moderation. mortality.” Coinciding with these acknow- The importance of this dietary concept, ledgements, there is now a developing scientific according to Oldways, is that it reflects the consensus that, for many individuals, moderate growing number of vegetarians and wine, beer and spirits consumption is associated 12

with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease The Oldways experts, working with the Harvard reflected in the 1999 JAMA Patient Page on and increased life expectancy which lead to the School of Public Health, specifically considered “Benefits and dangers of alcohol”, which defines above featured alcohol-inclusive nutrition findings from the ongoing Physicians’ Health ‘Moderate drinking as 1 or 2 drinks (12g) a day concepts. Study and the Nurses’ Health Study. Analyzing for men and 1 drink a day for women and those data from 84,000 women in the Nurses’ Health older than 65.’ These messages are embodied In 1997,Sir Richard Doll, Emeritis Professor of Study the effect of a combination of diet and in governmental positions in the US, UK, Medicine at Oxford,outlined in the British lifestyle factors were assessed on the risk of Australia and Canada. Medical Journal “massive” evidence for the CHD, Dr Meir Stampfer et al concluded,” In this potential beneficial effect of alcohol in a review population of middle-aged women, those who The Oldways alcohol messages as reflected of the clinical data on alcohol and mortality. He did not smoke cigarettes, were not overweight, in the pyramids are, however, especially concluded that “the consumption of small and maintained a healthful diet described above, notable in that they emphasize consumption moderate amounts of alcohol” leads to a one- exercised moderately or vigorously for half an with or around mealtime, as research has third-risk reduction for vascular disease. He also hour a day, and consumed alcohol moderately shown that these and related cultural norms acknowledged a reduction in total mortality in had an incidence of coronary events that was facilitate responsible drinking habits, may middle-aged and elderly men and women when more than 80% lower than that in the rest of the slow alcohol absorption and may counter they consumed wine, beer or spirits. More population.” At the same time, based on a potential harmful effects of fatty foods. For recently, world-renowned expert Dr. Arthur prospective study of more than 89,000 men as example, Dr. David Hanson, author of Klatsky from the US outlined the overwhelming part of the Physicians’ Health Study, Harvard Preventing Alcohol Abuse: Alcohol, Culture, and scientific evidence in Scientific American. Dr. researcher Dr Michael Gaziano et al concluded,” Control, explains, “The cross-cultural evidence Klatsky has published many research studies In summary, this study reveals the complex indicates that drinking abuse will be low in any on in leading scientific effect of alcohol consumption on various chronic group in which drinking customs, values and journals from the large-scale Kaiser Permanente diseases as reflected in the overall U-shaped sanctions are clear…. and characterized by cohort and in the recent article he wrote with relationship between light-to-moderate alcohol prescriptions for moderate drinking and respect to the most appropriate advice to the consumption and total mortality in men.”The proscriptions against immoderate drinking.” public, “On one hand, mild to moderate drinking earlier results from the US government’s funded Furthermore, several biochemical studies seems better for heart health than abstinence National Health and Nutrition Examination indicate that in addition to slowing down the for select people. On the other hand, heavy Survey (NHANES) were also considered, which absorption process, which keeps blood alcohol drinking is clearly dangerous.” Merely found that the risk for CHD is reduced for both levels lower, moderate consumption during or recommending abstinence is inappropriate men and women who drink moderately. around mealtime may have favourable effects health advice to people such as established light Published in 1997 in the American Journal of on lipid profiles and atherogenesis. One 1998 drinkers at high risk of CHD and at low risk of Epidemiology it stated:, “This analysis study published in the American Journal of alcohol-related problems—which describes a confirmed previous research showing that Clinical Nutrition, suggested “ may large proportion of the population.” Dr Klatsky abstainers are at a greater risk for CHD than reduce cardiovascular risk by modulating along with other experts from around the world are most non abstainers and that a significant vascular muscle growth during the postprandial has advocated that health professionals make protective effect may be demonstrated with period.” Research continues, but it appears clear case-by-case evaluations based on individual small amounts of alcohol.” Along those lines, that healthy dietary patterns are inversely and family histories. They also emphasize that research published in The New England Journal related with low rates of chronic diseases. This the public should be entrusted with all the of Medicine from American Cancer Society has been specifically confirmed in the ongoing information on use versus misuse of alcohol so experts concluded, “In this middle-aged and Seven Country Study which reported in 1999 that they can make informed decisions elderly population, moderate alcohol that animal-food groups were directly correlated themselves. consumption slightly reduced overall mortality.” with CHD mortality while vegetable-food groups, as well as fish and alcohol were inversely Authoritative findings from cohorts At the same time, there are continuing correlated. internationally, lead research experts to concerns about alcohol consumption and feature the option of moderation in each breast cancer and women are In summary, in line with the developing traditional Oldways Dietary Pyramid. Many recommended not to drink when pregnant scientific consensus, public health and peer-reviewed studies from Europe, Asia, , in line with governmental and public health governmental positions, the Oldways Australia and the US have revealed potential positions in the US. Authoritative statements pyramids stress moderation and underscore benefits for moderately drinking adults in from public health groups such as the American the importance of an overall healthy meal multi-ethnic populations. These studies find Heart Association, the National Stroke and lifestyle.Consumption is not that moderate drinkers, especially consumers Association and the American Dietetic recommended for non-drinkers or those of 1-2 drinks (12g) daily, may lower their risk of Association acknowledge the scientific evidence who may have any health contraindications heart disease significantly. Studies reporting pointing to potential benefits of moderation with and consumers are always advised to certain health advantages for moderate drinkers respect to coronary heart disease and consult with their healthcare providers. include the Lyon Heart Study, the Copenhagen emphasize, “If you choose to drink, do so in For selected references and authoritative statements on City Heart Study, the Australian Dubbo Study moderate drinking and health, please visit the Gateway to moderation.” A balanced summary position is Sensible Drinking and Health via www.aim-digest.com and the European Seven Country Study. 1313

ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED IN ALCOHOL AFFAIRS

UNITED KINGDOM EUROPE THE MEDICAL COUNCIL ON ARNOLDOUS GROUP ALCOHOL CONCERN 3 St. Andrew’s Place, London, NW1 4LB Brewers’ House, 10 Grand Place, B-1000 Brussels, Waterbridge House, 32-36 Loman Street, London SE1 Tel: (0207) 487 4445 Fax: (0207) 9354479 Belgium Tel: +32 2 511 49 87 Fax: +32 2 511 32 59 0EETel: (0207) 928 7377 Fax: (0207) 928 4644Website www. alcoholconcern.org.uk THE PORTMAN GROUP CBMC 7-10 Chandos Street, Cavendish Square, London W1G Chée de la Hulpe 181, bte 20, B-1170 Bruxelles Tel: ALCOHOL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH 9DQ (++32.2) 672 23 92 Fax: (++32.2) 660 94 02 COUNCIL Tel: 020 7907 3700 Fax: 020 7907 3710 Website: www.cbmc.org Abell House, John Islip Street, London SW1P 4LH Tel: www.portman-group.org.uk (0207) 217 5276 ALCOHOL FOCUS SCOTLAND FORUM Livornostraat 13 b 5 rue de Livourne – Brussel 1050 ALCOHOL AND HEALTH RESEARCH CENTRE 2nd Floor 166 Buchanan Street, Glasgow G1 2NH Tel: 0141-572 6700 Fax: 041-333 1606 Bruxelles, Belgium University of West of England, Glenside Campus, Tel: 32 2 539 36 64 Fax: 32 2 537 81 56 Blackberry Hill Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1DD Tel: email: [email protected] website (0131) 536 6192 Fax: (0131) 5366215 E-mail: BRITISH BEER AND PUB ASSOCIATION www.forum-taste-education.com mplant@[email protected] Market Towers, 1, Nine Elms Lane,London. SW8 5NQ ENTREPRISE ET PREVENTION Tel: 020 7627 9191 Fax:020 7627 9123 13, Rue Monsigny, 75002 Paris, France HEALTH EDUCATION AUTHORITY E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 00-33-53-43-80-75 Hamilton House, Mabledon Place, London WC1 9TX Website www.beerandpub.com E-mail: [email protected] Tel: (020) 72985656 Fax: (020) 77259031 Email: [email protected] IREB website: www.hpe.org.uk and www.wrecked.co.uk 19, avenue Trudaine, 75009 Paris Tel: +33 (1) 48 74 82 19 Fax: +33 (1) 48 78 17 56 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ireb.com USA, CANADA, SOUTH AMERICA,,, HEALTH EDUCATION FOUNDATION, INCINC. AUSTRALIA OIV 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW Washington DC 20037 18 rue d’Aguesseau, 75008 Paris, France Tel: (202) 338.3501 Fax: (202) 965.6520 Tel: +33 (0) 1 44 94 80 94 WINE AMERICA E-mail: [email protected] 1200 G Street NW , Suite 360, Washington DC 20005 Fax: +33 (0) 1 42 66 90 63 Tel: (800) 879 4637 Fax: (202) 347 6341 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.oiv.int E-mail: [email protected] ICAP Website: www.americanwineries.org International Center for Alcohol Policies STIVA 1519 New Hampshire Avenue, NW Benoordenhoutseweg 22-23, 2596 BA , The Hague,The Washington DC 20036 AMERICAN WINE ALLIANCE FOR RESEARCH Netherlands Tel: +31 (0)70 314 2480 Fax: +31(0) 70 Tel: (202) 986-1159 Fax: (202) 986-2080 314 24 81 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.stiva.nl AND EDUCATION Website: www.icap.org Visit website at: www.alcohol-AWARE.com SCANDINAVIAN MEDICAL ALCOHOL BOARD AMERICAN COUNCIL ON SCIENCE THE CENTURY COUNCIL Vandværksvej 11 DK - 5690 Tommerup AND HEALTH 1310 G Street, NW , Suite 600, Tel: 45 64 75 22 84 Fax: 45 64 75 28 44 1995 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10023-5860 Washington, DC 20005-3000 Tel: (202) 637-0077 Fax: E-mail: smab@org Website:www.smab.org Tel: (212) 362-7044 Ext. 234 Fax: (212) 362- (202) 637-0079 Email: [email protected] 4919Email: [email protected] Website:www.acsh.org Website: www.centurycouncil.org DEUTSCHE WEINAKADEMIE GMBH Gutenbergplatz 3-5, 55116 Mainz Tel: +49 02641 977340 Fax: +49 02641 977342 BEER INSTITUTE Website: www.deutscheweinakademie.de 122 C Street, NW #750, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF WINEGRAPE GROWERS . Washington DC 20001 FIVIN Tel:(202) 737-2337 Fax: (202) 737-7004 601 University Avenue, Suite 135 Sacramento, CA 95825 www.cawg.org email: [email protected] Plaza Penedés, 3, 3,08720 Vilafranca del Penedés, E-mail:[email protected] Barcelona, Spain Tel: 0034 (93) 890 45 45 Fax: 0034 Website: www.beerinstitute.org (93) 890 46 11 THE WINE INSTITUTE DIFA FORUM E.V PROYECTO CIENCIA VINO Y SALUD 425 Market Street, Suite 1000, San Francisco, CA Franklinstrabe 1, 10587 Berlin, Facultad de ciencias Biológicas, 94105, USA Tel: (415) 512-0151 Fax: (415) 442-0742 Germany Tel: + 49 (0) 30 39 0633 60 Casilla 114 D. Santiago, Chile Fax: +49 (0) 30 390 633 66 email: [email protected] Tel:/Fax: (56-23) 222 2577 Website www.difa-forum.de Email: [email protected] LODI -WOODBRIDGE WINEGRAPE COMMISSION GODA EDUC’ALCOOL 2545 West Turner Road Lodi, CA 95242 Gode Alkoholdninger, Kattesundet 9, DK-1458 606, Cathcart, Suite 700, Montréal, Québec, H3B 1K9 [email protected] website www.lodiwine.com København K, Denmark Tel: 33 13 93 83 Canada Tel: (514) 875-7454 E-mail: Fax: 33 13 03 84 [email protected] Website: www.educalcool.qc.ca THE NAPA VALLEY VINTNERS FIVS ASSOCIAITION Phone - 707-963-3388 Fax - 707- International Federation of Wines & Spirits 963-3488 Website www.napavintners.com 20, rue d’Anjou - 75008 Paris Tel: 33 1 42 68 82 48 THE AMERICAN BEVERAGE INSTIUTE Fax: 33 1 40 06 06 98 1775Pennsylvania Avenue NW , Suite 1200 Washington, D.C. 20006 Tel: 202.463.7110 THE AMSTERDAM GROUP www.americanbeverageinstitute.com OLDWAYS PRESERVATION & EXCHANGE Rue Wiertz 50/28 TRUST B-1050 Brussels Belgium 266 Beacon Street Boston, MA 02116 617.421.5500 Tel: +32 2 401 61 35 Fax: + 32 2 401 68 68 email: FISAC Fax: 617.421.5511 website: www.oldwayspt.org [email protected] (Fundacion de Investigaciones Sociales A.C.) Francisco www.amsterdamgroup.org Sosa 230. coyoacan CP 04000 Mexico DF - Mexico FUNDACION ALCOHOL Y SOCIEDAD THE AUSTRALIAN WINE RESEARCH Diego de Leon 44,2 ES 28006 Madrid INSTITUTE Tel: + 34 91 745 08 44 Fax: + 34 91 561 8955 P O Box 197, glen Osmond 5064, South Australia, www.alcoholysociedad.org Australia. Tel: 61 8 8303 6600 Fax: 61 6 303 6601