Cardiovascular disease kills thousands of people each year. It's well known that occurrences of cardiovascular disease may be reduced or prevented by choosing a healthy lifestyle. A well balanced diet and a dedication to exercise are proven methods of avoiding cardiovascular disease. However, many researchers have spent years trying to determine whether or not moderate alcohol consumption has a beneficial effect on those who might otherwise suffer from the disease.
Despite a number of studies having been conducted on the subject over many decades, the results remain inconclusive. One study finds that consuming one or two glasses of wine every day may help to prevent cardiovascular disease. Another concludes that only total abstinence can protect the cardiovascular system. Add to this confusion the fact that many of these studies have been criticized for having flawed methodology, and it becomes almost impossible to know what to believe.
As with most things, the best answer may lie in moderation. Making healthy choices about what you eat and how much exercise you get is likely to have a much greater effect on your chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Study after study has shown that these determining factors have a direct link. With plenty of evidence to back them up, you can feel safe relying on consistently healthy diet and exercise as a means of having a healthy heart.
However, the jury is still out about alcohol consumption. Although few hard and fast conclusions can be drawn, doctors suggest that wine may be the most beneficial alcoholic beverage on the market, beating out both beer and spirits for potentially positive health effects. Moreover, they believe it makes sense to consume alcohol only in moderation. For women this means about one glass a day while men may consume two. At the same time, it's best to avoid binge drinking entirely as most doctors agree that binge drinking has an overall negative effect on the body. Medical Disclaimer
The bottom line is that you don't have to worry about enjoying that glass of wine with your dinner. Just don't overdo it, and don't neglect good nutrition and exercise.
Health & Wellness . . . You're Worth It!
Dr. Kate Gerber & Dr. John Gerber
