Is there a connection between consuming a modest amount of alcohol and elevated blood pressure, which is a known risk factor for heart disease?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified alcohol consumption as a risk factor for individuals with comorbid conditions such as hypertension and obesity. Additional risk factors include aging, a sedentary lifestyle, and a high-salt diet. Health experts also point out that even light drinking can carry cardiovascular risks. As a result, WHO now emphasizes that there are no safe levels of alcohol consumption.
Dr. Farah Ingale, Director of Internal Medicine at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital in Vashi, discussed the impact of alcohol on blood pressure in an interview on World Heart Day. She mentioned a recent study involving 20,000 participants from various ethnic backgrounds, including the United States, which found that regular consumption of even low levels of alcohol can raise systolic blood pressure in both men and women. This effect was observed regardless of their initial blood pressure levels. The study’s findings were published in the journal of the American Heart Association.
Dr. Farah Ingale explained the findings of the study, stating that the analysis revealed a connection between alcohol consumption and systolic blood pressure. On average, consuming 12 grams of alcohol per day led to a small increase of 1.25 mmHg in systolic blood pressure, which is even less than the amount in a standard drink. However, higher levels of alcohol consumption showed a more significant impact, with 48 grams of daily alcohol intake resulting in an average increase of 4.9 mmHg in systolic blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), blood pressure is considered normal for most adults when the systolic reading is below 120 mmHg and the diastolic reading is under 80 mmHg. Hypertension is typically diagnosed when the systolic blood pressure reaches at least 130 mmHg or when the diastolic reading exceeds 80 mmHg.
Dr. Farah Ingale emphasized in her conclusion that even moderate alcohol consumption, such as 3-4 drinks per week, can lead to elevated blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure is a significant risk factor for cardiac or heart disease, along with other factors like smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and a family history of heart issues. Therefore, individuals at high risk for heart disease should refrain from consuming alcohol to maintain stable blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize that even moderate alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease. Recent studies have shown that as little as 12 grams of alcohol per day can lead to an increase in systolic blood pressure, and higher consumption levels are associated with even greater increases. For individuals at risk of heart disease, including those with hypertension, obesity, and other related conditions, it is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption altogether. Prioritizing a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and abstaining from alcohol, can contribute to better cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.