Make the smart choice, avoid alcohol

You’ve heard it before . . . have a glass of red wine — it’s good for you! But, is it really?

While it’s true that research has found an association between moderate drinking and a lower risk for coronary heart disease, it is only an association and has not been confirmed. Alcohol itself does not cause the lower risk. Any lowered risk may be due to lifestyle, diet, and exercise.

No matter what past or future research reveals, if you drink alcohol, you should do so in moderation, especially if you have cardiovascular disease. This means an average of one to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women (U.S. Dietary Guidelines).

Keep in mind that even moderate drinking may increase the risk for alcohol-related health conditions, such as adverse alcohol-drug interactions; trauma, including falls and automobile crashes; or hemorrhagic stroke. Drinking too much alcohol can raise triglyceride levels and can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, and an increased caloric intake.

If you do not already drink alcohol, do not start solely for health reasons. If you drink already, do not exceed the daily limit recommended by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines.

Talk to your doctor about lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure, controlling your weight, getting enough exercise, and following a healthy diet. There is no scientific proof that drinking wine or any other alcoholic beverage can replace these conventional measures.