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Drinking just two glasses of wine a day will damage your health, according to a study.

The research challenges previous claims that moderate amounts of alcohol could have a protective effect on the heart, the Daily Mail reports.

Even if you drink as little as 12 units a week – less than a pint of beer or two small glasses of wine a day – this will still have a negative effect on health say scientists.

The paper, published in the British Medical Journal, found drinking less reduces the risk of heart disease and lowers blood pressure.

Professor Juan Casas, of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: ‘We saw a link between a reduced consumption of alcohol and improved cardiovascular health, regardless of whether the individual was a light, moderate or heavy drinker.

‘Assuming the association is causal, it appears that even if you’re a light drinker, reducing your alcohol consumption could be beneficial for your heart.’

The study was hailed by other scientists as a victory for common sense.

Dr Tim Chico, a heart disease expert at Sheffield University, said: ‘There are few if any health benefits to drinking alcohol, even in moderation.

‘People are confused that one day doctors say one thing, the next come out with something different. To reduce your risk of heart disease you should walk to your greengrocer – not drive to your off-licence.’