Alcohol and Heart Attacks: What’s the story?

Abstract

Multiple large studies have found that drinking roughly one or more drinks per night reduces the risk of myocardial infarction. That being said, alcohol use is associated with notable adverse effects, including but not limited to, psychosocial disability, addiction, excess dietary calories, motor vehicle accidents, loss of productive work hours, and increased tendency towards violence and risky sexual practices. Although safe and moderate alcohol consumption may minimize these risks, a physician recommendation to drink alcohol for a “healthy heart” is likely not warranted at this time.