As January ended, many people who participated in Dry January began to consider returning to their usual drinking habits. This pause from alcohol often highlights how closely drinking habits are tied to heart and vascular health. While Dry January is commonly viewed as a short-term reset after the holidays, extending it or significantly reducing alcohol intake long term, can offer meaningful benefits for the heart.
Alcohol and Blood Pressure: A Silent Strain on the Heart
Alcohol has a direct effect on blood pressure. Regular consumption, even at levels often considered moderate, can cause blood pressure to rise over time. Elevated blood pressure forces the heart to work harder to circulate blood throughout the body, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease.
When alcohol intake is reduced or eliminated, improvements in blood pressure can occur within weeks. For some individuals, this may mean improved control with fewer medications. Reducing alcohol gives the heart an opportunity to function with less strain and supports healthier blood pressure levels.
Heart Rhythm, Cardiomyopathy, and Hidden Risks
Alcohol can interfere with the heart’s electrical system, increasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms. Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common rhythm disorders linked to alcohol use and significantly raises the risk of stroke. Episodes of heavy drinking can also trigger rhythm disturbances in people with no prior history of heart disease, a phenomenon often referred to as holiday heart syndrome.
Long-term alcohol use can weaken the heart muscle, a condition known as alcoholic cardiomyopathy. This makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs. In many cases, reducing or eliminating alcohol can slow progression and allow partial improvement in heart function.
Cholesterol, Inflammation, and Vascular Health
Alcohol affects more than just the heart muscle. It can raise triglyceride levels, contribute to weight gain, and increase inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation damages the lining of blood vessels, making it easier for plaque to build up in the arteries and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Taking an extended break from alcohol can support healthier cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve overall metabolic health. Many people also experience better sleep, increased energy, and easier weight management, all of which play an important role in protecting the health of their heart and vascular system.
A Heart-Healthy Reset Worth Continuing
Dry January does not have to end on January 31. Whether the choice is to extend abstinence, limit alcohol to special occasions, or significantly cut back, reducing alcohol intake can be one of the most impactful lifestyle changes for cardiovascular health.
Before making long-term changes, individuals should talk with their primary care provider or cardiologist about what level of alcohol intake is appropriate for their personal health history. For many, continuing the habits formed during Dry January can be a valuable step toward a healthier heart and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
by Thomas Scott, D.O.
UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute
Thomas Scott, D.O., is with UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute and sees patients at 740 High St., Williamsport. For more information about UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute services, go to UPMC.com/HeartNCPA.
