What Is The Relationship Between Alcohol And Heart Disease?

Dr. Douglas Zipes answers the question: 'Alcohol And Risk For Heart Disease?'

By
Douglas P. Zipes, M.D., Director, Krannert Institute of Cardiology; Professor, Indiana University School of Medicine
November 11, 2008, 2:38 PM ET
1 min read

— -- Question: What Is The Relationship Between Alcohol And Heart Disease?

Answer: The relationship between alcohol and coronary disease has been studied very often in the past several years, in very large trials.

In general, a small or relatively small amount of alcohol appears to be beneficial and helps to prevent the development of coronary artery disease.

So by that, I mean a glass, maybe two glasses, of wine per day would be a reasonable amount. We do not recommend a non-drinker to start drinking to help prevent coronary artery disease, but those who do indeed enjoy a bit of alcohol, a small amount, as I said, in moderation, appears to be beneficial.

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