Everybody is different, and IMO each of us needs to consider his/her own response to alcohol.

In general, there's medical evidence to support the idea of a single drink nightly or a few times a week as being beneficial for older folks, and I enjoy a martini 3-4 times a week. I rarely drink beer, because one isn't enough to satisfy, and I don't need the added calories. But otherwise, I've never had issues with higher consumption, short of the direct effects of drinking too much too fast.

When I'm in Cozumel, I tend to drink more beer, up to 2-3 in an evening, though not every evening. However, I'm walking more and eating lighter, so it works out OK.

So, my advice to anyone is enjoy it in moderation if it doesn't bother you, and quit if it does.