Say yes to wine

Many eyebrows were raised when cardiologists went on record, a few years ago, to make a statement that alcohol, when had in moderation, may be good for health.

Extensive research has been carried out since then and it has now been proven beyond doubt that moderate amounts of alcohol may actually reduce the incidence of heart attacks and brain strokes.

This fact first came to light when it was observed that the French have a low incidence of heart attacks in spite of their bad dietary habits and excessive smoking. Researchers pinned this down to the fact that they consumed red wine, which is said to be good for the heart. Alcohol, in moderation, is also known to increase the levels of good cholesterol and prevent deposition of bad cholesterol in the arteries. Alcohol also has an antioxidant effect, which may prevent clot formation.

Looking beyond health, it may be noted that social drinking promotes friendship, relieves mental stress and may induce better sleep.

That said, it does not mean that teetotalers should start consuming alcohol. It only means that we must not frown on people who consume it in moderation. That’s not all, youngsters who lack the maturity to handle alcohol should stay off it as chronic drinking can induce liver damage and increase blood pressure. Drinking and driving is also a strict no-no.

One must also realise that the thumb rule is ‘mild to moderate’. If you “drink like a fish” and are proud of it, you are in for trouble. It is also important to avoid eating fried foods and oily snacks along with drinks. It is much better to opt for fresh vegetables instead. It doesn’t matter whether you drink red wine, beer, scotch or whisky, as long as the snack is healthy. Avoid fatty food so that you don’t have to undergo an angioplasty, stent or bypass surgery. you can spend that money in buying yourself some good vintage wine instead!

So go ahead and enjoy those get-togethers while you can, with your doc’s permission this time, and leave the driving to somebody else.

Avoid the fat
* Alcohol in moderation can increase the levels of good cholestrol.
* Instead of indulging in cheese and fried snacks, opt for healthier snacks to go with your drinks.
* Alcohol combined with fatty food can result in heart ailments.

The writer is a senior consultant interventional cardiologist, Care Hospitals, Hyderabad.