Studies have shown that low to moderate alcohol consumption (no more
than 2 drinks a day for men, 1 drink a day for women) may decrease the risk of
coronary artery disease.1
Equivalents of 1 alcoholic drink
|
Beer
|
12 fl oz (355 ml)
|
|
Wine
|
5 fl oz (148 ml)
|
|
Hard alcohol
|
1.5 fl oz (44 ml)
|
Moderate wine drinking (1 to 2 glasses a day) may decrease the risk
of complications after a
heart attack. In a recent randomized, controlled study
of middle-aged male survivors of heart attack, moderate wine drinking was
associated with a significant reduction over a 4-year period in the risk of
complications.2
Alcohol appears to have an antioxidant protective effect on the
arteries. Alcohol also may increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or "good")
cholesterol and may have a slight blood-thinning effect.1
Although these studies show that wine may be beneficial, the American
Heart Association (AHA) states that the link between wine and reduced coronary
artery disease has not been proven. Without a large-scale trial that focuses
specifically on wine intake and its association with heart disease risk, the
AHA urges individuals to talk to their doctors about the benefits and risks of
drinking alcoholic beverages.3
Drinking too much alcohol can be dangerous and can cause problems.
Having more than 1 alcoholic drink daily for women or more than 2 drinks daily
for men may:
- Contribute to
high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for
coronary artery disease.
- Directly damage
heart muscle (alcoholic cardiomyopathy), which may weaken the heart, leading to
heart failure.
- Cause abnormal heart
rhythms (arrhythmias).
- Slightly increase the risk
of breast cancer in women.
- Interact with your medicines if you are
being treated for heart disease (or other diseases or conditions).
- Increase your risk of liver disease.
People who have liver problems, heart failure, high blood pressure,
certain blood disorders, or problems with alcohol abuse should not drink any
alcohol.
Given the risks related to alcohol consumption, the American Heart
Association cautions people not to start drinking and to
consult their doctors on the benefits and risks of consuming alcohol in
moderation.3