A study of more than 17,000 U.S. adults shows that moderate alcohol consumption—seven to 13 drinks per week—substantially raises one’s risk of high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to research being presented at the American College of Cardiology’s 68th Annual Scientific Session.
A study of more than 17,000 U.S. adults shows that moderate alcohol consumption—seven to 13 drinks per week—substantially raises one’s risk of high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to research being presented at the American College of Cardiology’s 68th Annual Scientific Session.
The findings contrast with some previous studies that have associated moderate drinking with a lower risk of some forms of heart disease. Most previous studies, however, have not assessed high blood pressure among moderate drinkers. Since hypertension is a leading risk factor for heart attack and stroke, the new study calls into question the notion that moderate alcohol consumption benefits heart health.
“I think this will be a turning point for clinical practice, as well as for future research, education and public health policy regarding alcohol consumption,” said Amer Aladin, MD, a cardiology fellow at Wake Forest Baptist Health and the study’s lead author. “It’s the first study showing that both heavy and moderate alcohol consumption can increase hypertension.”
Alcohol’s impact on blood pressure could stem from a variety of factors, according to researchers. Because alcohol increases appetite and is, itself, very energy-dense, drinking often leads to greater caloric intake overall. Alcohol’s activities in the brain and liver could also contribute to spikes in blood pressure.
Read more at American College of Cardiology
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