Alcohol Mixed Messages

We often drink to our health, but should we drink for our health? Science has shown that moderate consumption of alcohol may reduce risk of heart disease. The protective substances in alcoholic beverages may be ethanol and certain antioxidants.

Definitions: Moderate alcohol use is a maximum of one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. One drink equals 12 ounces of beer, or 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits (gin, rum, etc.).

Physical differences affect how both genders metabolize alcohol. In general, the effects of 1 drink in most women are roughly equivalent to that of 2 drinks in men. However, the effects of a moderate level also vary with an individual’s age, size and health. Even one drink can be harmful for some people.

Heavy drinking can increase your risk of liver damage, high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke as well as breast cancer (in women). Alcohol abuse also affects relationships, productivity and safety.

Do not drink alcohol if you:

• Have a history of alcohol dependency
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Operate a vehicle or machinery
• Participate in sports
• Take medications that may interact with alcohol

Bottom line: Despite the numerous reports in recent years suggesting the potential benefits of drinking, we don’t really need alcohol for heart health. And as the American Medical Association advises, if you don’t drink, don’t start. After all, we have plenty of positive ways to protect our hearts – a nutritious diet, weight control and regular physical activity – that don’t raise the risk of disease, injury and death.

References:
JAMA Patient Page: Alcohol Use and Heart Disease. American Medical Association, 2001. Accessed 11/20/06.
Is alcohol good for your heart? NIAAA, 3/06. Accessed 11/20/06.
“ Alcohol over time: Still under control?” Harvard Women’s Health Watch July 2006: 1-3.
“ Is the glass half-empty or half-full?” Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter Nov. 2004: 1, 4-5.

Source: Personal Best Publications

RESOURCES
o Alcoholics Anonymous: check local directories or www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.
o National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information: 800-729-6686, www.health.org
o National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: www.niaaa.nih.gov (check "Frequently Asked Questions")
o FAQs for the General Public from The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).