Drinking alcohol even in moderation does not help protect from heart diseases, a new research shows. This study contradicts previous theories that stated liquor in small quantities helps reduce risk of coronary heart diseases.
For the study, the researcher analyzed data collected from more than 50 studies that showed an association between drinking habits and cardiovascular health for over 260,000 people
According to the findings, the individuals who carry a specific gene, which typically leads to lower alcohol consumption over time, have on average superior cardiovascular health records. Particularly, the results show that people who consume 17 percent less alcohol per week have an average of 10 percent reduced risk of coronary heart disease, lower blood pressure and a lower body mass index.
Researchers examined the cardiovascular health of individuals who carry a genetic variant of the 'alcohol dehydrogenase 1B' gene known to breakdown alcohol at a faster rate. This rapid breakdown causes symptoms such as nausea and facial flushing. Moreover, it has been found to lead to lower levels of alcohol consumption over time. Using this genetic marker as an indicator of lower alcohol consumption, the researchers identified the links between such individuals and improved cardiovascular health.
"These new results are critically important to our understanding of how alcohol affects heart disease. Contrary to what earlier reports have shown, it now appears that any exposure to alcohol has a negative impact upon heart health," co-lead author Michael Holmes, MD, PhD, research assistant professor in the department of Transplant Surgery at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, said in a press release.
Researchers explained that this research with an investigative approach similar to a randomized clinical trial, showed that reduced consumption of alcohol, even for light-to-moderate drinkers, may lead to improved cardiovascular health.
A recent research showed that red wine and chocolate do not have any positive impact on health. According to the researchers, if there are any benefits from red wine, dark chocolate and berries, they would be only after a combination of different ingredients in a person's diet.
However, another study on alcohol showed that drinking red wine enhances memory. Brain scans showed that people who received resveratol supplement, a compound in red wine known for its possible healthful and anti-aging effects, had more connections in the brain regions linked to memory.
