Jeffery Gilbert, D.O.
UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute

While drinking can be a socially acceptable part of our lives, the warm weather and activities of summer may have you reaching for a glass of wine or mixed beverage more frequently than before. In moderation, there’s nothing wrong with unwinding with a glass of wine and friends, a cocktail by the campfire, or a beer after a round of disc golf.

Alcohol, in moderation, can be included in a healthy lifestyle, but avoid binge drinking or drinking to excess. One type of drink isn’t better than another, as your body reacts to alcohol the same whether it’s from beer, wine, or spirits, so it’s important to know what’s in your drink and how it will affect your body, especially your heart. Below are the truths behind five myths related to alcohol and heart health.

Myth: Moderate drinking is good for the heart.

Fact: This isn’t true for everyone, especially if you have underlying health issues. Your risks could be higher than any benefits. The American Heart Association reports studies that show alcohol raises HDL, or “good” cholesterol, and lowers the risk of dangerous blood clots show no direct link between alcohol itself and lower risk. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, getting regular exercise, not smoking, and coping with stress can provide more heart-healthy benefits and have almost no risk.

Myth: Red wine will help prevent heart disease.

Fact: We’ve all heard about scientific evidence linking red wine and heart health. Red wine has compounds that might lower the risk of heart disease, but so do grapes. Those studies also don’t take into consideration other health habits individuals have to reduce their overall risk. It might be that moderate red wine drinkers are more likely to have a healthier diet and lifestyle.

Myth: Moderate drinking is acceptable.

Fact: That depends on your definition of moderate. All alcoholic drinks have different numbers of calories and different amounts of alcohol. The American Heart Association defines moderate drinking as no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women. The serving size is important. One serving is 12 ounces of beer, 4 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits.

Drinking more than that can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Alcoholism
• Depression
• Heart failure
• Heart rhythm problems
• Heart muscle disease
• Higher triglycerides
• High blood pressure
• Liver disease
• Obesity
• Stroke

Myth: Drinking heavily once a week is not a health concern.

Fact: If you drink to excess once a week or binge drink, it puts you at a higher risk for certain heart conditions. Binge drinking — having five or more drinks in two hours for men or four or more drinks for women — can cause atrial fibrillation, an irregular or quivering heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. Plus, all the extra calories can lead to obesity and a higher risk of developing diabetes.

Myth: Alcohol is an acceptable way to relax and deal with stress

Fact: Drinking alcohol may seem like a convenient way to cope with stress, but there are many other healthier strategies. Staying physically active, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a positive attitude are some good ways to manage stress. Instead of reaching for the bottle of wine, try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. You can also take this extra time to start a new hobby or find pleasure in something you enjoy that doesn’t include drinking alcohol.

If you have questions about your drinking habits or concerns about how alcohol may be affecting your health and well-being, seek prompt professional help. You can talk to your health care provider or call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990.

Jeffery Gilbert, D.O., is a cardiologist with UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute and sees patients in Wellsboro (15 Meade St.) and Mansfield (416 South Main St.). To make an appointment with Dr. Gilbert at either location, call 570-321-2800. For more information about UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute services in north central Pa., go to UPMC.com/HeartNCPA. ­­