Korea Health Promotion Institute Warns Against Misleading Alcohol Weight Loss Claims

[Hinews] SEOUL — The Korea Health Promotion Institute has issued a warning about a viral social media claim suggesting that alcohol consumption can lead to weight loss, labeling it as exaggerated health misinformation. The institute urged the public to exercise caution with scientifically unfounded content.

The problematic post, which garnered over 3,600 likes and widespread attention, claimed that a Harvard University study found moderate alcohol consumption aids weight loss. However, the institute clarified that the study was conducted by a Japanese research team, not Harvard, and had no direct connection to weight loss.

The referenced study involved approximately 57,000 Japanese adults and examined changes in blood cholesterol levels related to drinking habits. It found that HDL (high-density lipoprotein, often called "good cholesterol") levels increased while LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or "bad cholesterol") levels decreased. Notably, the study made no mention of weight loss.

Furthermore, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that higher HDL levels promote weight loss. In fact, weight loss typically leads to an increase in HDL levels, not the other way around.

Haejung Lee, a professor of food and nutrition at Gachon University, emphasized the caloric impact of alcohol. “One gram of alcohol contains about 7 kilocalories, a high energy content,” she said. “When consumed with snacks, it’s likely to be stored as body fat.” She added that alcohol, metabolized as a toxic substance in the body, takes priority over other nutrients, hindering their breakdown.

To curb the spread of health misinformation, the institute recommended following its “Health Information Content Guidelines.” For content creators, these include using clear language, avoiding exaggeration or falsehoods, grounding claims in evidence, citing sources and dates, and disclosing any commercial interests. For consumers, the guidelines advise checking the source, purpose, and date of information, cross-referencing with other sources, and maintaining a healthy skepticism.

Dr. Heonjoo Kim, director of the institute, stressed that claims about alcohol-induced weight loss are misleading and risk justifying excessive drinking. “We will continue to proactively address false health information and strive to create a trustworthy information environment for the public,” he said.

Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM press@hinews.co.kr

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