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Does Alcohol Lower Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a substance found among the fats in our bodies. Cholesterol is important, as it supports many of our bodily functions. However, too much bad cholesterol can cause heart attacks, strokes and even death. Studies have shown that moderate drinking of alcohol can help lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in our bodies. Those who consume one to three alcoholic beverages a day have been found to be less at risk of heart failure and could possibly live longer than those who do not drink alcohol at all.

  1. LDL cholesterol

    • According to the American Heart Association (AHA), "low-density lipoprotein is the major cholesterol carrier in the blood." LDL cholesterol is considered "bad cholesterol," since too much of this type in our blood can cause build up in the arteries that carry blood to the heart and brain. When high levels of plaque clog arteries, then there is a risk of heart attack. This type of cholesterol can also cause clotting, and when blood is struggling to make it to the brain, a stroke can occur. Doctors will set a goal for those who have high levels of LDL cholesterol in hope of trying to lower the level in the blood and preventing any health problems.

    HDL cholesterol

    • The AHA explains that "about one-third to one-fourth of blood cholesterol is carried by high-density lipoprotein cholesterol." This type of cholesterol is considered to be "good," as experts believe it helps to prevent heart attacks. HLD works by carrying blood "away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it's passed from the body," states americanheart.org. In this way, HDL cholesterol helps remove excess plaque from the arteries, thus preventing any clotting or blockage.

    Background of Alcohol

    • Throughout history, alcohol has been used to treat many health issues. Within the past hundred years, explains Dr. David J. Hanson of Potsdam University, moderate alcohol consumption has been found to lower bad cholesterol levels in the body and increase good cholesterol levels. In turn, alcohol has been linked to lowering the risk of heart disease. According to Hanson's studies, "moderate drinking is beneficial to heart health, resulting in a sharp decrease in heart disease risk (40 to 60 percent). This is crucial, as heart disease is one of the most frequent killers in the United States.

    Effects of Alcohol

    • So how does alcohol help to prevent heart failure and clogging of the arteries that carry blood to the heart and brain? As Dr. Hanson states, it helps to "improve blood lipid profile." It boosts HDL levels, lowers LDL levels and it improves both types of cholesterol's particle size. Alcohol aids in preventing blood clotting caused by cholesterol as it reduces the plaque buildup. Dr. Hanson also notes that alcohol also helps to increase blood flow to the heart and brain and helps to improve blood pressure.

    Considerations

    • Moderate alcohol consumption not only helps with cholesterol levels, but also helps to reduce risks of kidney disease, diabetes and other diseases and disorders. But Dr. Hanson points to the word "moderation" and warns us not to drink in excess. Moderation is one to three drinks per day. Hanson explains that alcohol will help cholesterol levels and many other health problems, only if we do not abuse it. Heavy consumption of alcohol can lead to liver disease, cancer, high blood pressure and stroke. (See Resource below for information on healthy alcohol consumption.)

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