Those that stop drinking have a shorter life span than those that continue.
Wine is suggested as a way to beat free radicals so good for the body.
Humans have always looked for mind altering states.
Grog is a form of self medication for all sorts of reasons. Even in the New Testament wine was suggested as a remedy for a stomach problem (good excuse).
Is there a difference between an alcoholic and alcohol dependence?
The majority of adults could not give up grog completely.
I am probably in the same camp as you. Now and then I stop altogether as I find it hard to moderate what I drink.
When I do I find it great for a while but I lose creativity in writing and discussion, I become boring beyond belief, just stop communicating with those around me etc.
So in my next life I won't start :-).
My advice? Haven't a clue really. I find I drink less when involved in more physical activities but it just happens rather than trying to organise it.