Alcohol and the Cardiovascular System

The consequences of excessive drinking on the liver are known (the accumulation of fat in the organ can progress to necrosis and hepatic fibrosis), while the effects of alcohol on the cardiovascular system are less well known, although equally harmful.

There are numerous studies that underline this, and further confirmation of the correlation between alcohol consumption and heart problems comes from a 2021 study by University College London. The final results indicate that arterial stiffness in young people between the ages of 17 and 24 increased by an average of 10.3% in drinkers compared to those who do not consume alcohol, a stiffening that is A major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

The effects of alcohol on the cardiovascular system depend on various factors, including the type of alcohol consumed, the quantity, and the frequency of consumption. The greater the consumption and alcohol content, the greater the damage, which can also become chronic.

Increased blood pressure

Alcohol is a vasodilator, so its consumption causes an increase in blood flow and blood pressure, even temporarily. If not kept under control, high blood pressure can cause hardening and thickening of the arteries, a risk factor for heart attack and stroke.

Changes in heart rate

Alcohol consumption can can lead to episodes of tachycardia (an increased heart rate) and arrhythmia (an alteration of the heart rhythm, such as atrial fibrillation). These problems, depending on their frequency and intensity, can in turn cause clots and, consequently, a heart attack or stroke.
Alcoholic cardiomyopathy
Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is a specific disease caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Long-term alcohol abuse, in fact, weakens the myocardium, the heart muscle, limiting its ability to contract and pump blood, and leading to heart failure (with symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling of the limbs). Heart failure can lead to complications such as:

•    kidney damage;
•    Liver failure;
•    heart disease;
•    heart attack;
•    stroke.

Prevention

Preventing cardiovascular problems and diseases involves a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups tailored to your risk factors, along with constant blood pressure monitoring.

It is important to limit alcohol consumption, eliminate cigarette smoking, engage in moderate but continuous physical activity, and favor a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables and lean proteins, while avoiding processed and industrial foods, saturated fats, and sugary drinks.