Limit alcohol

One drink a day of alcohol consumption is probably not bad for your heart. But there is not much evidence that completely backs up the idea that consuming alcohol may be beneficial to your overall health.

A glass of red wine may help lower HDL cholesterol, but drinking too much alcohol might be harmful to the heart. Alcohol abuse can increase the risk of heart failure, obesity, and high blood pressure. Drink carefully; if you drink, do not exceed the maximum recommended limits. Men and women are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week; spread your drinking over 3 days or more if you drink as much as 14 units a week. Avoid binge drinking, as this increases the risk of a heart attack. Of course, check with your doctor if drinking is even safe for you.