Cure or Killer

Alcohol can be good for your heart –but only if you’re a post menopausal woman or a man over 40 and it may be only red wine that’s beneficial. Moderate amounts –that’s unit or less a day –can help reduce blood stickiness and increase levels of beneficial high-density lipoproteins.

One unit is eight grams of pure alcohol, which is equivalent to one small glass of wine, or half a pint of beer, drinking more than the recommended amount turns the benefits into risks. It increases the risks of heart disease, making you more prone to high blood pressure and increasing the risk of mouth, esohageal and probably liver cancer. It is recommended that women drink no more than two to three units in one day, while everyone should ensure they have several alcohols free days every week. Small amounts of alcohol even one or two units on a daily basis –do increase the risk of developing breast and bowel cancer.