For years, we’ve been told that moderate alcohol consumption, especially a glass of red wine a day, could offer cardiovascular benefits. However, Dr. Jeremy London, a cardiac surgeon with over 25 years of experience, is urging people to rethink this advice. In a recent statement, he warns that even small amounts of alcohol can trigger dangerous heart-related effects.
Is your daily drink secretly destroying your heart?
Dr. London, known for his clinical expertise, took to social media to highlight the risks associated with alcohol, even in moderation. He explains that alcohol can disrupt important physiological processes that impact heart health. “In a nutshell, red wine is not good for your heart,” he said. This can lead to serious conditions such as hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
While many associate alcohol with relaxation and social enjoyment, it has the potential to trigger harmful physiological mechanisms. According to Dr. London, alcohol activates the sympathetic nervous system.
This process leads to the narrowing of blood vessels and an increased heart rate, both of which contribute to higher blood pressure. These new findings paint a clearer picture of the negative impact alcohol can have on the body, even in controlled quantities.
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The ripple effect
The damage caused by alcohol extends beyond high blood pressure. Dr. London stresses that alcohol consumption also significantly increases the risk of arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation. This heart rhythm disorder can have serious consequences, such as an increased risk of stroke. The connection lies in the way alcohol disrupts the balance within the autonomic nervous system, which plays a crucial role in regulating heart function.
“I hate to tell you, but even moderate alcohol use is in question. Why is that? Well, when we drink alcohol, it’s broken down to acetaldehyde and acetate. Acetaldehyde is directly toxic to every single cell in the body, and acetate is just empty calories,” he insists.
Also, alcohol interferes with lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. This disturbance can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions that raises the risk of heart disease. Over time, heavy or even moderate drinking may also damage heart cells, impairing their ability to contract and function properly. This could eventually lead to heart failure, which can be a permanent and irreversible condition.
Are you drinking too much without knowing?
In 2021, the European Society of Cardiology revised its guidelines, advising that people should not exceed 100 grams of alcohol per week—roughly equivalent to 7 to 12 standard drinks. However, these guidelines remain controversial. A 2018 study published in The Lancet examined alcohol consumption patterns in 195 countries and found no level of alcohol consumption that is completely risk-free for health.
The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has echoed similar concerns, highlighting the benefits of reducing alcohol intake. Short-term benefits include improved energy levels, clearer skin, and more money in your pocket. Long-term, reducing alcohol consumption can lead to lower blood pressure, a reduced risk of stroke, and improvements in mental health and cognitive function.
Dr. London’s message is clear: “In the end, drink red wine because you enjoy red wine, not in hopes of increasing longevity.” His advice is simple but powerful: stay informed, make conscious choices about alcohol, and take care of your heart.
