Is Wine Good for Heart Health? The Truth REVEALED
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted December 5, 2024
For years, many of us have savored an evening glass of red wine, comforted by the notion that this amount of alcohol might benefit our heart health.
Well, unfortunately, I have to be the bearer of bad news… Recent research is challenging this long-held belief.
In fact, there’s growing evidence that even light to moderate alcohol consumption may not provide the heart-protective benefits we once thought.
Let’s take a closer look…
Some respected organizations, including the Mayo Clinic, continue to suggest that there are potential benefits from moderate wine consumption—while others are taking a more cautious stance.
The American Heart Association (AHA), for instance, no longer recommends drinking alcohol for any purported health benefits.
AHA’s shift in perspective is backed by emerging scientific evidence. Studies increasingly indicate that the supposed cardiovascular benefits of light to moderate drinking, seen in earlier research, may have been overstated at best or misinterpreted at worst.
This reassessment has led to significant changes in health recommendations.
In a bold move, the World Heart Federation declared in 2022 that “No level of alcohol is safe” for heart health.
This statement underscores the growing concern among health professionals about the risks associated with drinking alcohol, even at lower levels.
Those risks include…
- Increased blood pressure
- Higher risk of specific cancers
- Liver damage
- Weight gain
- Interference with certain medications
Now, it’s the holiday season… and I’m not Scrooge. So, remember that while new findings challenge the idea of wine as a heart-healthy drink, that doesn’t necessarily mean you must completely abstain if you enjoy an occasional glass.
However, it’s essential to be able to make informed decisions about drinking alcohol based on your overall health, risk factors, and the input of your healthcare provider.
If you’re still looking to support your heart health, consider focusing on other well-established beneficial practices, including…
- maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet,
- taking any heart-healthy supplements your doctor recommends,
- exercising,
- managing stress,
- getting adequate sleep,
- and avoiding smoking.
Science and medicine aren’t static targets. New research and shifting information can change our understanding at any time. But they can also help us make better decisions in the long run.
As the research into alcohol and cardiovascular health continues to evolve, I’ll be sure to keep you informed so that you can take steps to protect your heart and overall health.
P.S. From viral video star to heart health hero.
Source:
“The impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular health, World Heart Federation, 20 Jan 2022
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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