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Topic Overview

If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation. But if you do not drink alcohol, do not start drinking to try to lower your risk of heart disease. You have many other options that can lower your risk. These options include a healthy diet, exercise, and not smoking. Talk to your doctor about your heart and the benefits and risks of drinking alcohol.

Equivalents of 1 alcohol drink

Beer

341 mL (12 fl oz)

Wine

142 mL (5 fl oz)

Hard alcohol

43 mL (1.5 fl oz)

Drinking too much alcohol can be dangerous and can cause problems. Having more than 2 alcohol drinks a day for women or more than 3 drinks a day for men may:

    • Contribute to high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for coronary artery disease.
    • Increase your risk of stroke.
    • Directly damage heart muscle (alcoholic cardiomyopathy), which may weaken the heart, leading to heart failure.
    • Cause abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
    • Increase your risk of some cancers.
    • Interact with your medicines if you are being treated for heart disease (or other diseases or conditions).
    • Increase your risk of liver disease.

Related Information

References

Other Works Consulted

  • Brien SE, et al. (2011). Effect of alcohol consumption on biological markers associated with risk of coronary heart disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis of interventional studies. BMJ. Published online Feb 22, 2011 (doi: 10.1136/bmj.d636).

Credits

Adaptation Date: 12/3/2017

Adapted By: HealthLink BC

Adaptation Reviewed By: HealthLink BC

Adaptation Date: 12/3/2017

Adapted By: HealthLink BC

Adaptation Reviewed By: HealthLink BC