Will Alcohol Increase Cholesterol? Separating Risk and Reward

Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance found in each of our body’s cells. Some cholesterol is necessary for our body’s normal functioning.

However, too much of some types of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and other serious chronic illnesses. To appreciate how alcohol affects cholesterol levels, it is necessary to examine different components of a lipid profile, the measurement of fats in the blood, and how alcohol interacts with each one.How Does Alcohol Affect Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is carried through the blood attached to proteins, forming particles called lipoproteins. 

There are two main types of these particles — low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL (so-called “good” cholesterol) takes cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver to be processed or excreted, and LDL (so-called “bad” cholesterol) carries cholesterol to the arteries and can contribute to plaque buildup. High levels of LDL are risk factors associated with heart disease.[1]

The manner in which alcohol impacts these two lipid types is generally dependent upon the amount of alcohol consumed. The distinction between moderate alcohol consumption and chronic or excessive use is critical before determining how alcohol affects cholesterol levels and cardiovascular disease risk.

Does Alcohol Raise HDL Cholesterol?

According to widely discussed findings in cardiology research, moderate alcohol consumption appears to raise levels of HDL cholesterol in some people. A well-known cardiology research study indicates that light and moderate drinkers have higher HDL cholesterol than those who do not drink alcohol, leading to speculation about its cardiovascular benefits.[2]

Red wine is often regarded as particularly beneficial because of the content of certain polyphenols (plant compounds with antioxidant properties), such as resveratrol. Several studies have concluded that some of these plant compounds may have some degree of cardioprotection, but other researchers argue that when light to moderate drinkers are examined with all lifestyle factors considered, HDL levels may be influenced by other lifestyle factors instead of by the alcohol itself.[3]

The American Heart Association and other major health organizations do not recommend drinking to raise HDL cholesterol or improve heart health.[4] The risks of drinking, including addiction, liver disease, elevated blood pressure, and certain types of cancer, outweigh any potential benefits it might have on HDL. Safer and more effective ways to raise HDL include regular physical activity, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet.

Will Alcohol Increase Cholesterol? The Heavy Drinking Problem

While moderate alcohol consumption may have a relationship with HDL cholesterol, the picture becomes much clearer when evaluating heavy alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking and binge drinking have been consistently associated with harmful changes to lipid profiles and a much higher risk for cardiovascular disease.[5]

Alcohol and LDL Cholesterol

Chronic alcohol use may increase levels of LDL cholesterol over time. The liver plays an essential role in cholesterol metabolism by processing fats and regulating the amount of cholesterol released into the bloodstream. Alcohol is processed by the liver, and chronic alcohol use will impair its ability to do so effectively. As liver function declines, LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the blood, contributing to atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty plaques inside artery walls) and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Alcohol and Triglycerides

The primary way that alcohol use may create an increased risk for cholesterol-related disease is due to its effects on triglycerides. The liver converts excess calories from alcohol into triglycerides, which are then released into the bloodstream. Regular drinking can cause high levels of triglycerides, which is a condition known as hypertriglyceridemia. Having high triglycerides is an independent risk factor for heart disease and is also associated with pancreatitis and liver disease.

According to data from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, even moderate amounts of alcohol can increase triglyceride levels, creating additional risk for people who already have high triglycerides.[6]

Broader Cardiovascular Risks of Heavy Drinking

Heavy drinking can affect more than just your cholesterol and triglyceride levels; it can have other effects on your heart and cardiovascular system. These include:

• High blood pressure: Alcohol raises blood pressure, particularly with chronic use, which is one of the leading causes of secondary hypertension.
• Cardiomyopathy: Long-term heavy drinking can weaken and enlarge the heart, reducing its ability to pump blood properly.
• Irregular heart rhythms: Heavy drinking is associated with arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, which increases stroke risk.
• Obesity: Alcoholic beverages are very calorie-dense, and regular heavy drinking contributes to obesity, which is a major risk factor for high cholesterol and heart disease.

Can Beer Raise Cholesterol?

Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages, and many people wonder if it has an effect on their lipid profiles. The answer for not just beer, but any alcohol, is that it depends on the amount consumed.[7] 

Beer contains carbohydrates that can be converted into triglycerides, especially when consumed in large quantities. Heavy beer drinking is much like any other form of heavy alcohol use, causing higher triglyceride levels, impairing liver function, and contributing to high LDL cholesterol over time. Light beers contain fewer calories and carbohydrates than regular beers, but they are not free of risk when consumed in excess.

For people watching their cholesterol, no type of alcoholic beverage is a safe choice in large amounts.[8]

Alcohol, Cholesterol, and the Dietary Guidelines

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines moderate alcohol consumption for women as one standard drink a day and for men as two standard drinks a day.[9] A standard drink contains 14 grams of pure alcohol, which is equal to 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits.

The guidelines indicate that people who do not currently drink should not start drinking due to any perceived benefit to their health, including cholesterol or heart health reasons. For people who do drink, the most important factor in reducing alcohol-related cardiovascular risk is to remain within these limits. 

For people with existing high cholesterol, high triglycerides, liver disease, or a family history of cardiovascular disease, even moderate alcohol intake may increase their risk, and speaking with a healthcare provider about alcohol consumption is strongly advised.

When Alcohol Use Becomes a Health Concern

The question of whether alcohol raises cholesterol is part of a bigger question: Is drinking affecting your overall health? 

Chronic heavy alcohol use can negatively affect cholesterol, particularly by increasing triglycerides, and also affects your liver, mental health, and blood pressure, and contributes to many other serious diseases over time, including cancers.[10]

If you find yourself drinking more than you intended to, having difficulty limiting your consumption, or noticing that your physical health is connected to how much you drink, it may be worth seeking professional help. Getting help for alcohol use disorder as soon as possible is one of the most important things you can do for your health; the sooner you do so, the less likely you are to have permanent damage to your heart, liver, or other organs.At The Garden Recovery & Wellness, we offer evidence-based, compassionate, outpatient treatment for alcohol use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders. Our boutique-style programs feel warm and personal, creating an environment where real healing can happen. Contact The Garden today to take your first step toward better health.