Alcohol and VTE

Updated on: August 18, 2014
Alcohol_VTE_vein_blog_july09.jpg The American College of Cardiology released a study this week showing daily alcohol consumption may reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in older women. The study was focused on a variety of diet factors, but alcohol was found to be the best contributing factor, having a 26% decreased in number of VTE cases over a 19 year period. The study went on to say, "for the practitioner, it can be problematic to recommend alcoholic consumption. However, mounting epidemiologic evidence would suggest that it is perfectly reasonable to report to patients that moderate alcoholic consumption (one drink per day) is associated with better health outcomes than abstinence or consumption of more than one alcoholic drink per day." The study emphasizes that only one drink a day is beneficial to health. Excess consumption may counter your efforts, as well as lead to a variety of other health problems. Alcohol in moderation can be a helpful tool to help fight off cardiovascular disease as well as VTE. However, patients should consult with their doctor before any drastic dietary changes are made.
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