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.
View More Free Articles
The $1000 Weight-Loss Secret Your Body Makes for FREE
Weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have become household names. These injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs have captured widespread attention, with celebrity endorsements and social media success stories highlighting their dramatic results. But here’s what those glossy headlines aren’t telling you… GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released by your gut. It acts as...
Brain Fog? Your Thermostat Could Be the SURPRISING Culprit
Cranking up the heat in winter or blasting the AC in summer can send your utility bills soaring. So, it’s no surprise that many of us choose to grit our teeth and endure it. But that could be a huge mistake. New research reveals that extreme indoor temperatures don’t just make you uncomfortable—they could be...
Nature's Powerful COVID-19 Defense REVEALED
While Big Pharma scrambles to cash in on new COVID-19 treatments, Mother Nature already has powerful allies waiting in the wings. A groundbreaking review in the journal Nutrients revealed a secret that Big Pharma won’t advertise—common herbs and supplements could ease mild COVID-19 symptoms. And the best part? You won’t need a prescription or to...
Women, Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs!
I’ve spent decades in medicine, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that women are tough as nails. They’re pros at pushing through discomfort and brushing off warning signs. But that strength can also be their biggest health risk. Feeling tired? Well, of course—after all, you’re juggling a million things! Short of breath? It...
5 Warning Signs Men Should NEVER Ignore!
Men—listen up. I know you pride yourself on being tough. You insist on pushing through and refuse to make a fuss about “every little ache and pain.” But here’s the cold, hard truth… That tough guy act? It could KILL you. As a doctor I get an unwanted first-row seat to some hard-learned lessons. Hardly...
Mailbag: Is Your Gut Secretly Attacking Your Joints?
“Can a leaky gut cause sudden onset arthritis? My wife has developed arthritis over a 2-month period that is almost debilitating at this point, and she has constant diarrhea. Are these symptoms connected in some way?” -Leaky and Lost Hi Lost, When my patients ask me about leaky gut, my answer is always the same: “It’s...
“Brain Brew” SLASHES Dementia Risk
If you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you know I’m a coffee fan. There are plenty of good reasons to stay that way. In fact, I shared a reason just last week. But I’ve also made room in my life for another hot beverage—and that’s green tea. Now, new research suggests it was a...
Nature's New Mood Booster? (It's Already in Your Kitchen!)
Scientists uncovered something surprising hiding in plain sight in our kitchens. And it might turn out to be nature’s answer to fighting depression. The best part? You’re probably already eating it… Let’s find out. An exciting new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reveals that naturally occurring spermidine could help keep the blues...
Coffee Mug Hack Could Head Off Cancer
If you’re a coffee lover, it doesn’t get much better than that first cup of morning coffee. But before you reach for your favorite mug, I have some news that might make that java taste EVEN better. A new study finds your coffee habit could protect you from one of the world’s most common cancers…...
WALK Away from Cancer? Study Says “Yes!”
When you’re battling cancer, the LAST thing you need is more questionable advice. Yet a parade of well-meaning folks will insist you must do everything from running marathons to moving to a Greek island in order to outsmart the disease. But what if something as simple as a daily walk could give you the extra...