Does Alcohol Increase Blood Pressure, And Should I Drink If I Have High Blood Pressure?

— -- Question: Does alcohol increase blood pressure, and should I drink if I have high blood pressure?

Answer:Drinking excessive amount of alcohol is definitely associated with developing high blood pressure. The recommendation is if you don't drink, please don't start. But if you do drink, it is advised that you don't drink more than a moderate amount. And for women, that is usually about one drink per day. And for men, about two drinks per day. And also remember that alcohol contains a lot of calories. And of course, this can lead to obesity and being overweight, which is a definite risk for developing high blood pressure.