A new study has shown that moderate alcohol consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of serious diseases.
Moderate alcohol consumption can have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
This is the conclusion reached by scientists in a new, large-scale study. However, experts emphasize that this is not a direct recommendation to drink alcohol.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 50,000 people in the Massachusetts General Hospital database. The results showed that people who consumed alcohol in moderation had a significantly lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases compared to those who completely abstained.
Scientists discovered that the possible reason for this effect is related to the impact of alcohol on the brain. In moderate doses, it reduces stress signals from the amygdala, which is responsible for anxiety and emotional reactions. This even leads to a general reduction in the burden on the heart and blood vessels several days after drinking.
A more detailed analysis of brain examinations of over a thousand participants showed that those who consumed alcohol moderately reduced amygdala activity while the prefrontal cortex, responsible for control and decision-making, remained normal. According to researchers, this combination may explain about a 22 percent reduction in the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers also ruled out the effects of socioeconomic status, physical activity level, and genetic factors, which increased the reliability of their findings.
Despite their findings, the authors of the study urged caution. They emphasized that there is no completely safe dose of alcohol and that there are more reliable and healthy ways to reduce stress. According to scientists, the results of the study should be regarded not as justification for regular alcohol consumption but as an explanation of the observed biological effect. (lent.az)
