Alcohol

Drinking more than the recommended amount of alcohol can cause high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms and can lead to other problems such as stroke and liver problems.

Alcohol is also high in calories so, if you are trying to lose weight, reducing your alcohol intake, eating a heart healthy diet and regular exercise could help you reach your goal.

How much can I drink?

There is no level of drinking that is safe for all people all of the time. Factors such as health, age and weight affect how much it is safe for you to drink.

In New Zealand we use a measurement called a ‘standard drink’. In any one week you should drink no more than:

• 21 standard drinks (for men) - 3 a day
• 14 standard drinks (for women) - 2 a day

When drinking it is important to eat some food as well, as this helps your body to absorb the alcohol more slowly.

Is some alcohol good for my heart?

Whilst research suggests a reduced heart risk from a daily average of less than two drinks in men and one drink in women (drinking more does not have health benefits) the research, and extent of protection for the heart, is now being questioned.  

Because of alcohol's other adverse health effects, it is not advised that you drink or start drinking for the sake of your heart. There are other ways in which you can protect your heart such as eating a heart healthy diet, enjoying regular exercise and quitting smoking.  If you do choose to drink, it is recommended that you remain within safe drinking guidelines.  However, the recommended limits could be too high for people with excess body fat around their waist, high blood triglycerides, high blood pressure, problem drinking or heart failure.