Does Wine Increase Blood Pressure?
Alcohol affects every organ of the body. It is a central nervous system depressant, absorbed through the stomach and small intestine. Although the effects of alcohol on the system vary, studies show that one symptom of excessive alcohol consumption is an increase in blood pressure.
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American Heart Association
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The American Heart Association (AHA) states that drinking alcohol in excess can increase blood pressure. Although some studies have shown that the flavonoids and antioxidants found in wine can be beneficial, these ingredients can also be found in other foods, like red grapes and red grape juice. The AHA recommends that if you do drink, to drink in moderation. Moderation means, at most, two drinks for men and one drink for women.
Red Wine
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There are no studies showing that alcohol aids in cardiovascular health.
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Solution
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Do not start drinking because it could be beneficial to overall health. Exercise and a good diet will contribute to a healthy lifestyle, and have been shown to lower blood pressure.
Bottom Line
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Some studies show that drinking in moderation can help prevent heart disease and stroke, but excessive drinking is linked to many health problems. If you have high blood pressure, consult your doctor for a plan to increase cardiovascular health.
Warnings
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Drinking alcohol is also linked to other health-related issues, such as obesity, cardiomyopathy, cirrhosis, pancreatitis, fetal alcohol syndrome, and various cancers and psychological disorders. People who take aspirin daily should limit alcohol intake, as this can increase stomach problems.
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References
- The American Heart Association states that drinking alcohol in excess can increase blood pressure. Although some studies have shown that the flavanoids and antioxidants found in wine can be beneficial to a healthy lifestyle, these beneficial ingredients can be found in other foods, like red grapes and red grape juice. The AHA recommends that if you drink, drink in moderation. Moderation means at most two drinks for men and one drink for women.
- If you do drink, if you are going to drink, do so in moderation.
- Drinking alcohol is also linked to other health related issues like obesity from excessive calories, cardiomyopathy, liver cirrhosis; pancreatitis, fetal alcohol syndrome, and various cancers, psychological disorders. People who take aspirin daily should limit alcohol as it can increase stomach problems.
