Skip the wellness maxing and have some wine The article contrasts comedian Ron White’s jokes about vegetarians’ perceived ill health with podcaster Steven Bartlett’s extreme claims about alcohol ruining his life for three days after two glasses of wine. The author argues that such obsessive ‘wellness maxing’ leads to fragility, where ordinary occurrences become crises, contrasting this with the historical and cultural role of alcohol in human society.

• Comedian Ron White’s jokes highlighted the perceived negative health effects on vegetarians.
• Podcaster Steven Bartlett described alcohol as having a “hidden cost,” stating two glasses of wine ruined three days of his life due to a domino effect.
• The author criticizes ‘wellness maxing’ and obsessive data tracking, suggesting it leads to fragility rather than strength.
• Alcohol has a long history in human civilization, serving social, ritualistic, and celebratory purposes.
• The article advocates for balance, respecting alcohol’s risks while preserving its role in fellowship and joy, rather than treating it as a simple evil.
• True health should enhance life’s capabilities, not diminish the ability to survive ordinary life events.