The problem of alcoholism plagues the public health domain, especially in the United States. While most people are moderate drinkers, Alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects about 15 million adults in the United States, and an estimated 88,000 people die from alcohol-related causes annually. Consuming copious amounts of alcohol can not only affect the quality of life but also have long-term health consequences such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease.
Considering the statistics and the lack of awareness of the gravity of the situation, Alcohol Awareness Month, organized by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, strives to increase awareness around the dangers of alcoholism and related issues.
In the light of Alcohol Awareness Month, here’s what you should know about alcohol consumption and heart health.
Does Alcohol have any Benefits for your Heart Health?
Some people believe that moderate alcohol consumption can mitigate the risks of dying from heart diseases. But does a glass of wine keep the doctor away? Some studies reinforce this claim, but it is hard to determine the veracity of these studies vis-a-vis their cause and effect. There is some evidence that moderate amounts of alcohol might help slightly raise “good” HDL cholesterol levels. But that does mean you have to pop a cork to reap these benefits.
What are the Effects of Alcohol on Cardiovascular Health?
Unhealthy patterns of alcohol consumption are associated with severe health implications including cardiovascular disease. Several studies suggest that heavy drinking in both men and women can lead to high blood pressure or hypertension, which is one of the most common risk factors associated with a heart attack or stroke.
Furthermore, excessive drinking can also weaken the heart muscle (also known as cardiomyopathy), i.e., the heart can’t pump blood as efficiently as it should, which ultimately leads to heart failure.
How can you Reduce the Risks of Heart Disease?
Alcohol being the third leading preventable cause of death in the nation, it becomes imperative that we make conscious efforts to mitigate the risks of heart disease and untimely deaths. One of the best ways to keep your heart health in check is to cut down on your alcohol intake. Additionally, leading cardiologists recommend regularly monitoring your cardiovascular health to prevent further complications.
When it comes to monitoring heart health, healthcare professionals use an electrocardiograph to record the changes of electrical potential occurring during the heartbeat or any abnormalities in the functioning of the heart.
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