Alcohol and Your Health

How Alcohol Affects Your Heart and Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system has been one of the most observed in regards to alcohol consumption. Over the years studies have shown over and over again that there are many long term health benefits to that of consistently consuming alcohol moderately. This consumption of alcohol has shown improvements on most of the body’s functions which is rather extraordinary.

One of the most popular alcoholic beverages that has been associated with heart health is red wine which contains polyphenol antioxidants which helps fight oxidative stress, neurodegenerative diseases as well as some cardiovascular diseases, such as Thrombosis-related diseases and conditions. In addition to the antioxidant qualities in alcohol, studies have also shown that alcohol has the ability to increase your HDL (aka happy cholesterol) levels, as well as preventing blood clotting (aka Thrombosis) and blood clotters such as fibrinogen. Moderate consumption of alcohol also reduces stress spasms in our arteries while increasing insulin responsiveness and blood flow.

Studies have shown that moderate consumption of alcohol decreases the incidence of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD), atherosclerosis, peripheral arterial disease, angina pectoris, and coronary vascular disease.
Many patients suffering from coronary vascular disease are treated with alcohol because of the effects it has on artery walls as well as alcohol ’s healing qualities.
In addition to heart disease, alcohol also assists the body in preventing the risk of heart attack and stroke, even improving the chance of surviving and recovering from a heart attack as opposed to those who do not consume alcohol. In regards to stroke, moderate consumption of alcohol does reduce the risk of stroke as well as ischemic stroke in men; however, in contrast, heavy consumption of alcohol has shown to increase the risk of stroke, and, in some cases, anemia, thrombocytopenia and cardiomyopathy (http://www.cardiomyopathy.org) (aka heart muscle disease or “holiday heart syndrome”).

Sources include:

http://www.who.int/en/ http://www2.potsdam.edu/hansondj/InTheNews/MedicalReports/Heart/1107357916.html
http://www.americanheart.org

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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

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Please note:
Each person’s body is different and alcohol consumption does pose some potential risks to the digestive system such as increased risk of stomach inflammation, cirrhosis, chronic and acute pancreastitis, hypoglycemia (chronic low blood sugar) and even hepatitis for many individuals. The studies conducted are, in most cases, focused on more moderate drinkers (around 1-2 drinks per day) and does not include those who abstain from alcohol as well as those who drink heavily on a regular basis. The results found are from studies performed over periods of time decided upon by scientists and medical professionals from around the world and are not studies conducted by The Hangover Network. The information provided is for informational purposes and not to be considered as medical advice. So, please always consult with your medical professional for more details on the potential risks that may affect you individually.