Effect of moderate alcohol intake on cognitive functioning: Does a little bit of what you fancy do you good?

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the acute effects on cognitive functioning of moderate doses of alcohol such as might be consumed by occasional drinkers in the course of social activities. In particular, attention is given to the claim advanced by certain authorities and promulgated by sections of the alcoholic drinks industry, to the effect that a moderate intake of alcohol can actually have a beneficial effect on cognitive performance. It is concluded that, in general, alcohol has an adverse effect on cognitive performance. Apparent instances of beneficial effects associated with low doses most typically result from poorly conducted experiments or unusual combinations of circumstances.