An expert in nutrition has warned that even a small intake of alcohol can raise your blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. She specified the number of drinks that could pose a danger in this regard.
It is common knowledge that individuals in the UK enjoy consuming alcohol. Data from Drink Aware indicates that 48% of adults drink alcohol at least once a week.
Despite the perception of moderate drinking, the NHS warns that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption. A specialist has revealed that consuming more than three alcoholic beverages in a single sitting could be risky.
In an article for the British Heart Foundation (BHF), registered dietitian Tracy Parker discussed the link between alcohol consumption and blood pressure. She emphasized that high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart and circulatory diseases.
Tracy explained, “Alcohol’s impact on blood pressure is influenced by the quantity and frequency of consumption. Alcohol can interfere with brain receptors responsible for regulating blood pressure.”
She cautioned that consuming more than three alcoholic beverages in one session can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure due to alcohol’s stimulation of the nervous system, which leads to a short-term elevation in heart rate and blood vessel constriction.
Continuously consuming over four alcoholic drinks in one session can have lasting effects on health, impairing the brain’s blood pressure regulation mechanisms and potentially resulting in long-term high blood pressure, heart strain, and vessel damage.
Tracy debunked the belief that red wine is healthier for blood pressure, emphasizing that excessive alcohol intake, regardless of type, can adversely affect blood pressure. Additionally, alcohol’s high calorie content can contribute to weight gain, another risk factor for high blood pressure.
According to current NHS guidelines, it is recommended to limit alcohol consumption to no more than 14 units per week, equivalent to six pints of beer or six small glasses of wine.
Tracy advised against excessive drinking, warning that consuming more than six units of alcohol in a short period can lead to significant blood pressure spikes and long-term increases in blood pressure. For individuals at risk of or with high blood pressure, reducing or abstaining from alcohol consumption can help lower blood pressure levels.
For individuals concerned about their blood pressure or alcohol intake, consulting a GP is recommended.
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