When it comes to alcohol and your heart, should you avoid it? Learn to spot the difference between fact and fiction when it comes to alcohol.
By now, most people have heard that drinking a glass of wine is good for your heart’s health. However, the facts are not so black and white, which is why this article explores the myth vs. the reality.
Alcohol and Heart Health
According to some studies, there is a link between moderate alcohol intake and lower risks of dying from heart disease. However, determining the cause and effect from these studies is not that easy.
For example, those who drink red wine may have higher levels of income, resulting in better access to healthier foods. Moreover, individuals who consider themselves red wine drinkers may also be more likely to eat a heart-healthy diet.
Some current research suggests that drinking alcohol in moderation may slightly increase your “good” HDL cholesterol levels. When it comes to alcohol, red wine may be particularly effective at protecting the heart due to its antioxidant content.
Nevertheless, these health benefits are not exclusive to alcohol and may be obtained from healthier sources. In fact, exercise can increase your HDL levels while foods like fruits, vegetables, and grape juice are full of antioxidants.
Drinking Too Much
While the debate is still ongoing in regards to the heart benefits of drinking alcohol, the key is moderation. Even within those who support the idea that alcohol can boost your heart health, moderate drinking seems to be the focus.
Moderate-intake means one drink per day for women and two for men – although, this differs depending on the drink. For instance, one drink equals 12 ounces of beer, 4 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits.
Moreover, some experts believe that even those limits are too much, especially if you have certain heart conditions. “There are certain situations where it’s best the patient doesn’t drink any alcohol,” says Johns Hopkins cardiologist John William McEvoy.
Alcohol and Heart Disease
While moderate drinking may be beneficial, heavy drinking can definitely result in poor health outcomes. In fact, excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and stroke.
Furthermore, alcohol can contribute to weight gain and obesity, a heart disease risk factor that can lead to other problems. “Alcohol is a source of excess calories and a cause of weight gain that can be harmful in the long term,” says McEvoy.
The Outlook
If you do decide to drink alcohol, the key is to do it in moderation and not to drink excessively. “We’re not talking about going out and drinking yourself merry and then expecting good heart outcomes,” says McEvoy.
However, if you’re looking for healthier ways to boost your heart health, why not try L-arginine Plus? Its ingredients effectively promote circulation, blood pressure health, cholesterol health, and more.
If you’re ready to give your health the support it deserves then put the alcohol away and try L-arginine Plus.