Moderate alcohol consumption has been associated, in almost every study that has examined it, with a lower risk of heart attacks and sudden death. The magnitude of this decrease may be as much as 25% to 35%, which is substantial given that heart disease is the leading cause of death in industrial countries. In addition, several studies show a diminished overall mortality among moderate drinkers compared to non-drinkers and heavier drinkers. Other epidemiologic studies show improved functioning among the elderly (as manifested by increased physical activity and improved health) who consume moderate amounts of wine, beer or spirits compared to non-drinkers and heavier drinkers. Finally, one survey demonstrated fewer hospitalizations, in general, among moderate drinkers.
No definitive data supports improved cognitive ability among moderate drinkers compared to other groups. However, moderate drinkers do appear to have a diminished likelihood of thrombotic strokes (i.e., strokes due to a blood clot blocking the blood flow to the brain), which are 90% of all strokes. On the other hand, a slight increase has been reported in the likelihood of hemorrhagic strokes (i.e., strokes due to bleeding inside the brain) among drinkers compared to non-drinkers. The overall results suggest that moderate drinkers have a diminished risk of stroke, compared to abstainers and heavier drinkers.
All of these studies demonstrate associations between various levels of alcohol consumption and selected health outcomes, but do not prove cause and effect. Therefore, moderate drinkers may be healthier because of some other, as yet unidentified, factor. However, alcohol in moderate amounts is known to increase the level of high- density lipoprotein, which protects against heart disease. It also affects blood-clotting in beneficial ways with respect to the prevention of heart disease.
As such, the evidence appears to suggest that moderate alcohol consumers have an improved outlook compared to non-drinkers and heavier drinkers. Most of this improved outlook derives from a diminished likelihood of coronary artery disease and, perhaps, a diminished likelihood of certain kinds of strokes.
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