New study recommends 1 alcoholic drink or fewer per day. Its researchers want clearer U.S. guidelines on drinking

June 10, 2026 - 00:36

A new scientific review is calling for stricter federal guidelines on alcohol consumption, recommending that Americans limit themselves to one drink per day or fewer. The study, which was commissioned during the Biden administration, argues that current U.S. dietary guidelines-which allow up to two drinks per day for men-are too lenient and not aligned with the latest evidence on health risks.

The research team analyzed decades of data linking alcohol to cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular issues. Their findings suggest that even moderate drinking carries significant risks, and they are urging federal health officials to update the official recommendations to reflect a lower threshold.

However, the path to new guidelines has become politically fraught. One official involved in the original study, speaking on condition of anonymity, accused the Trump administration of "sidelining" the research. The official claimed that political appointees have stalled the review process and prevented the findings from being formally considered for the next edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Representatives for the Trump administration deny the allegation, stating that the research is being reviewed through standard procedures and that no decision has been made to suppress it. The dispute highlights the growing tension between public health experts and political leadership over how to communicate the dangers of alcohol.

The study's authors hope that, regardless of political shifts, the evidence will eventually lead to clearer, more protective guidelines that prioritize long-term health over industry interests. For now, they recommend that anyone who drinks consider cutting back to one drink per day-or less.