Dr Manuel Abreu: Limiting Alcohol for Cardio Fitness
In the spirit of good health, it’s time to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. You often hear about the purported benefits of moderate drinking, but it’s carelessly crossing that moderate line that can spell trouble for your heart. Dr Manuel Abreu will investigate how and why limiting alcohol consumption is key to keeping your ticker in good shape.
Preventing High Blood Pressure
First of all, excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, or hypertension, which poses a significant risk for heart disease. By maintaining moderate alcohol consumption, you can help keep your blood pressure under control.
Dodging Cardiomyopathy
Dr Manuel Abreu Long-term heavy drinking can lead to cardiomyopathy, a condition in which your heart muscles struggle to pump blood effectively. For that matter, limiting alcohol intake can prevent this damage and keep your heart functioning well.
Keeping Heart Rhythm Steady
Heavy drinking, even occasionally, can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythms. And from that, limited alcohol consumption contributes to a healthier, steadier heartbeat.
Staving Off Stroke
Alcohol consumption increases the risk of stroke, which is a condition that can lead to severe heart complications. Therefore, by limiting your drinking, you also limit your stroke risk.
Defying the Triglyceride Connection
Alcohol consumption can contribute to elevating the level of triglycerides, a type of fat, in your bloodstream. High concentrations increase the risk of heart disease. Cutting back on alcohol can help maintain healthy triglyceride levels.
Maintaining A Healthy Weight
Alcohol is high in empty calories, which can lead to unwanted weight gain. This is a known risk factor for heart disease. For that matter, limiting alcohol can assist in maintaining a healthy weight, thus promoting a healthier heart.
Do You Raise Your Glasses?
Dr Manuel Abreu Moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men. However, “moderation” should never be an excuse to start drinking if you don’t already, particularly given the risks involved.