Substance Avoidance : Alcohol
Reduce harmful exposures. Lower cumulative cardiometabolic risk.
Alcohol & Heart Health
Alcohol-related risk is dose-dependent.
Heavy drinking increases risk of:
- Hypertension
- Stroke
- Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy (Heart muscle weakening)
- Dilated Heart Chambers
- Heart Failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF)
Even Moderate drinking increases risk of:
- Atrial Fibrillation ( A-Fib: irregular heart rhythm- linked to stroke & heart failure)
- Early changes in heart structure
- Metabolic strain
Alcohol, Blood Sugar & the Cardiometabolic Connection
How Alcohol Affects Your Metabolic Health
- Raises Triglycerides and Blood pressure
- May worsen insulin resistance and increase the risk of diabetes
- Can contribute to fatty liver and abdominal obesity
- Can disrupt glucose control, especially in people with diabetes
Over time, these effects collectively increase the risk of metabolic syndrome.
How Much Is Too Much?
Heavy Drinking:
>14 drinks/ week (men)
>7 drinks/ week (women)
Moderate Drinking:
Up to 1 drink per day (women)
Up to 2 drinks per day (men)
Binge Drinking:
Binge drinking is defined as drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08% or higher, typically occurring after:
Men: 5 or more drinks on a single occasion (~ 2 hours)
Women: 4 or more drinks on a single occasion
Know Your Limits
What is One Standard Drink ?
12 oz Beer with 5% Alcohol
5 oz Wine with 12% Alcohol
1.5 oz Distilled Spirits
(80 proof Liquor- 40% Alcohol)
Lower exposure — lower risk.
Protect Your Heart and Metabolism.
Global Burden of Disease Study, The Lancet, 2018: “The safest level of alcohol consumption is NONE.”
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This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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“Aikyaa” refers to Aikyaa Heart Health & Wellness PLLC.