Alcohol Consumption and Cardioprotection:Moderation is The Key

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of global morbidity and  mortality.  Besides  inflicting  tremendous  human  suffering, they also result in huge direct and indirect financial costs on the worldwide  society.  With  the  ready  availability  of  affordable therapeutics globally, and the relative lack of newer innovations, lifestyle interventions are gaining importance to further control this epidemic. Low to moderate alcohol intake is consistently and strongly   related   with   lower   risk   of   cardiovascular   disease incidence  and  mortality.  However,  most  studies  indicate  that heavy drinking has a detrimental effect. This paper reviews the effects   of   alcohol   consumption   on   several   cardiovascular diseases