Tips to Lower Triglycerides and LDL Cholesterol

Know the Affects of Alcohol on Triglycerides and LDL

Alcohol in moderation is considered one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. It can lower LDL, according to a clinical inquiry by Oregon Health and Sciences University researchers published in the June 2007 issue of The Journal of Family Practice.

Alcohol may also increase HDL, the good cholesterol. But as Jerry Blaine, M.D., who specializes in lipid disorders at the Lahey Clinic, points out, the recommendation for alcohol is mild or moderate and doesn't apply to a person who drinks one glass of wine a day during the week and then has five drinks on a Saturday night. He also adds that alcohol should not be used to treat high cholesterol.

For high triglycerides, the AHA recommends significantly reducing alcohol consumption. Alcohol even in small amounts can spike triglyceride levels.

Note: The beneficial effects of alcohol are not great enough to endorse the use of alcohol if you do not already drink. Talk with your doctor about how alcohol may affect your health.

See more on the alcohol and cholesterol debate.