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Moderate alcohol consumption may reduce cardiovascular disease risk by increasing HDL cholesterol and improving blood clotting factors. However, alcohol
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality show geographic variations.
- Moderate alcohol consumption is linked to reduced cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the cardioprotective mechanisms of moderate alcohol intake.
- To discuss the role of alcohol in cardiovascular health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on alcohol and cardiovascular disease.
- Analysis of proposed biological mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Alcohol may increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
- Alcohol might reduce blood coagulation and enhance fibrinolysis.
- These effects suggest a cardioprotective role for moderate alcohol intake.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol's cardioprotective effects are likely multifactorial, involving lipid profiles and hemostasis.
- Alcohol should not be recommended for CVD treatment due to addiction risks.
Abstract:
The attenuating effect of moderate amounts of alcohol on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has been reported by several groups of investigators at various geographic locations. At this time, the generally accepted explantation for this cardioprotective effect favors an increase in plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, a factor inversely associated with the development of coronary heart disease (CHD). Other variables potentially influencing the development of CHD such as a reduced tendency for blood coagulation and increased fibrinolytic activity has been enhanced by alcohol and may be considered as possible additional mechanisms for the cardioprotective effects of the agent. Because of its addictive potential, alcohol should not be considered for treatment of CHD.