Drinks & Your Heart — Part 4 : Alcohol

Added: 2026-05-26

[00:00:00]As a cardiologist, this is one myth I still hear all the time. A little alcohol is good for the heart. Alcohol can increase blood pressure, heart rate, inflammation, and triglycerides. But, one of the biggest concerns we see is AFib, an abnormal heart rhythm. In fact, cardiologists even have a term, holiday heart syndrome. That's when people develop arrhythmias after drinking, sometimes even healthy people. And one combination we really worry about, alcohol mixed with energy drinks. Your brain may feel more awake while your heart is under even more stress. Because stimulants can mask intoxication, people often drink more than they realize. That can increase arrhythmias, dehydration, blood pressure spikes, and risky behavior. And despite the hype, red wine is not a heart medication. Yes, red wine contains resveratrol, but the amount is tiny compared to alcohol's effects on the body. From a preventive cardiology perspective, less alcohol is generally better for long-term heart health.

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