The relationship between alcohol and cholesterol is actually a positive one. Studies show that consuming alcohol in moderate amounts can help to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as bad cholesterol, and the HDL is referred to as good cholesterol.
Good cholesterol is needed in the body for the production of certain hormones. It also works to improve the absorption of certain nutrients and to flush out the bad cholesterol. The bad cholesterol contributes to high blood pressure and heart disease when levels rise too high.
Studies have found a positive relationship between alcohol and cholesterol — namely that it can help to lower cholesterol levels when consumed in moderate amounts. For men, that amounts to one or two drinks daily, while one drink daily is sufficient for women. Consuming anything over the recommended amount will have adverse effects. Therefore, an alcoholic — or anyone who consumes alcohol in large amounts — will not be able to lower cholesterol through the use of alcohol.
Alcohol is generally loaded with high amounts of calories, which can cause blood triglyceride levels to rise, even if the alcohol is consumed in small amounts. Triglycerides are the molecules that hold excess calories until they are needed by the body for energy. High triglyceride levels, when combined with high amounts of alcohol and cholesterol levels that are abnormally high, can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Exercise has been shown to be an effective way to help lower triglycerides and to help bring cholesterol levels back into balance. Therefore, moderate amounts of alcohol may be combined with exercise and a cholesterol diet to help raise the good cholesterol. A cholesterol diet involves reducing the intake of saturated and trans fats, while increasing the intake of monounsaturated fats. It also involves consuming plenty of high-fiber foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Extra caution should be taken when using alcohol as a way to balance cholesterol levels, because some studies indicate cholesterol medications and alcohol can interfere with each other. This interference may cause the bad cholesterol levels to rise even higher. Other problems that may arise as a result of using alcohol to lower cholesterol levels include heart disease, as well as the risk of alcoholism. When taking into consideration the positive relationship between alcohol and cholesterol, one should also take into consideration the risks associated with the regular use of alcohol and try to find a balance between the two.
