Less than what? Response to alcohol consumption recommendations in the 2025-2030 dietary guidelines for Americans.

The United States Health and Human Services (HHS) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued new alcohol guidelines in January 2026. The prior per occasion drinking limits of no more than 2 drinks per day for men and no more than 1 drink per day for women were replaced with the ambiguous advice to 'consume less for better health'. Alcohol use remains one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death, contributing annually to 3 million deaths worldwide. Women have demonstrated recent increases in drinking and evidence exacerbated health risks associated with drinking alcohol. The removal of sex-specific drinking guidelines has significant health consequences, particularly for women. This Personal View addresses recent conflicting reports regarding the relationship between alcohol and health; summarizes the current state of the knowledge regarding alcohol and health; addresses women as a special population; and provides recommendations to improve public health.