Many women avoid drinking calorie-filled cocktails, wine, and beer because they’re worried about adding the pounds. But a new study suggests that women who are moderate drinkers actually tend to gain less weight over time than those who don’t drink.

Women who consumed between 1.5 and 3 drinks daily had a 27% and 61% lower risk of becoming overweight or obese than women who didn’t drink at all. But the researchers did not look at how their drinking may have affected their lives aside from weight gain. After all, alcohol use can lead to health problems and “psychosocial problems,” and they are quick to point out that appropriate alcohol intake is different for each person and depends on many factors.

So don’t go drinking all of the time and thinking it’s okay, but on the other hand don’t be afraid to have a drink now and again. Moderation is always the key.

[health]