Wine at 5
In several (not all) Blue Zones, people drink alcohol moderately and regularly — typically 1–2 glasses of wine with food and friends.
Why it works
Blue Zones frames the benefit as mostly social and dietary context (with food, with friends) rather than the alcohol itself.
What the evidence says
Blue Zones observes moderate, social wine drinking in some longevity regions — but notably NOT in Loma Linda, whose Adventists abstain and are among the longest-lived.
Source: Buettner, Blue Zones Power 9.
An honest caveat
Be careful with this one. Recent reviews — including the WHO (2023) — conclude there is no completely safe level of alcohol, and large studies question earlier "moderate drinking is protective" claims. Loma Linda's abstaining Adventists show the longevity benefits are achievable with zero alcohol. Treat "wine at 5" as the weakest, most contested Power 9 habit.
How to apply it
- If you don't drink, this is not a reason to start.
- If you do, keep it moderate, with food and company — never alone or to cope.
- Prioritise the social ritual, which the other Power 9 habits deliver without alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
The other Power 9 habits
See how your own habits add up.
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