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Alcohol has heart health benefits, study finds

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Those who drink moderate amounts may be able to improve their cholesterol test scores, as a new study from a team of researchers from the University of Calgary has found that alcohol can protect individuals from heart disease.

Previous studies have shown similar links between moderate alcohol consumption and a reduced risk of cardiovascular complications. The new study is the latest to affirm these benefits, suggesting that the connection is relatively strong.

For the study, the researchers reviewed the findings of 83 previously published investigations into heart health and drinking. They found that men who had up to two drinks and women who had up to one drink per day were between 14 and 25 percent less likely to develop heart disease.

The researchers said that their findings show that it is time for public health agencies to update their messaging regarding alcohol. Currently, campaigns only focus on the terrible things that can happen to a person if they drink, but they infrequently mention the benefits.

When consumed responsibly, alcohol may have many benefits for individuals who have received unhealthy cholesterol test results.