High blood pressure is a leading cause of deaths in the whole world. Apart from millions with diagnosed hypertension, still many others are borderline hypertensive. High blood pressure increases the risk of a person to develop cardiovascular diseases, kidney problems, heart attack and even stroke.

Among the causes of hypertension, alcohol is being considered as one of the leading ones. Other lifestyle factors that cause high blood pressure are smoking and an unhealthy diet consisting of fatty and salty foods. Stress is also a factor. However, do alcohol and high blood pressure really have a connection? Ironically, alcohol in moderate amounts is said to aid in preventing cardiovascular ailments like heart attack and stroke. However, the amount of moderation could be controversial. Some studies that link alcohol with hypertension state that even conservative alcohol consumption can lead to increase in blood pressure, thus leading to hypertension.

Is there are recommended amount of alcohol that every person is allowed to take for one to be called a moderate drinker and in turn not in any risk of developing high blood pressure because of alcohol drinking? According to reports, experts recommend one drink a day for women, whereas two drinks for men. Because different drinks have different alcohol levels, that count may mean different things. Generally, 12 ounces of beer or 5 ounces of wine is considered as one drink. The recommended amount of alcohol intake for it to be considered moderate also differs according to the age of an individual. To be sure, it would be best to ask a health practitioner or your health provider for advice.

One possible effect of alcohol consumption is its effect on the liver, alcohol affects and disrupts the way the liver metabolizes enzymes, for example rennin and angiotensin, which controls the blood pressure inside our body. Moreover, the more the alcohol damages the liver, the lesser is the ability of the organ to remove harmful toxins in our body. The toxins thus remain in the blood, which can lead to damage in blood vessels. Also, the liver is essential in metabolizing fats; if it is being used to metabolize alcohol instead, the fats that are not metabolized then contribute to increased cholesterol levels. Congestion of the liver due to too much alcohol will lead to blocking of blood delivery to other blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to other parts of the body.

As with most things alcohol can be harmful, however, if taken in excessive amounts. There has been a considerable amount of studies indicating that alcohol can increase blood pressure. The effect appear to be proportional, the more you drink the higher your risk of developing hypertension.