Alcohol
14 Million Americans either abuse alcohol or are alcoholics. Aside from its addicting qualities, alcohol has potential negative effects on nutritional status when consumed in excess:
- Creates need for more vitamin B3 and vitamin B6.
- Causes excretion of magnesium, calcium, potassium, and zinc in the urine.
- Decreased absorption of vitamin B1, folate, and vitamin B12
- Associated with high blood pressure, stroke, birth defects, cirrhosis, and cancer
You may be delighted to learn that there appears to be a heart-protective effect from moderate con- sumption of all forms of alcohol. Moderate intake is considered 1-2 drinks (12-ounces of beer, 4-5 oz of wine, 1 oz of 80-proof alcohol) per day. Benefits include:
- Lowers risk of heart attach
- Prevents blood clots
- Increases HDL (‘healthy’ cholesterol)
