Alcohol consumption refers to the intake of beverages containing ethyl alcohol, which can impact various bodily systems including cardiovascular health. Moderate and excessive drinking have different effects on heart function and overall wellness.
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Moderate alcohol consumption may be associated with some cardiovascular benefits, such as increased levels of HDL cholesterol.
Excessive alcohol intake is linked to hypertension, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, and an increased risk of stroke.
Alcohol can contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
Binge drinking is particularly harmful to the heart and can lead to sudden cardiac death even in individuals without pre-existing heart conditions.
The American Heart Association recommends that if you do drink alcohol, it should be limited to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Review Questions
How does moderate alcohol consumption potentially benefit cardiovascular health?
What are the risks associated with excessive alcohol intake on the cardiovascular system?
What is the recommended limit for alcohol consumption according to the American Heart Association?
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often called 'good' cholesterol that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream.
Cardiomyopathy: A disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for your heart to pump blood to the rest of your body; excessive drinking can lead to this condition.