Why Alcohol Is More Dangerous During the Holiday’s in Texas

Why is it that, the winter holidays bring the highest spikes in heart attacks and strokes? Every year the medical magazines I read call it ‘heart attack season,’ ‘stroke season,’ even ‘write-your-will season.’ That’s not exactly the cheerful message we hope for this time of year, and it makes me worry about my family, my friends, and even myself.

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Why the Holidays Can Be Hard on the Heart

Why is it the upcoming winter holidays have the highest spikes in health and cardiac issues? Every year I see all the medical magazines I like to read warn about it's heart attack season, it's stroke season, it's 'you better write your will season'. When I see those it's not a happy time of year for me because I worry about all my family and friends.

The holidays are right around the corner, and that means festive times, family gatherings, and, yes, plenty of food and drink. But here in Texas, doctors warn that this season also brings a spike in heart attacks and cardiac issues.

Why? It Comes Down to Four Big Things:

1. Stress
2. Overexertion
3. Overeating
4. Alcohol consumption
   
   

I’ll admit, I enjoy an Irish coffee or a maple-bourbon sip once in a while. But even if you only drink occasionally, it’s important to know how alcohol impacts your heart, blood pressure, and body.

What Alcohol Does to Blood Pressure

Steven Nissen, MD, a cardiologist with the Cleveland Clinic, says even small amounts of alcohol can raise blood pressure, which in turn raises stroke risk. And while many people think a little alcohol is “good for the heart,” experts now agree that the benefits have been overstated. Doctor Nissen claims that 'no amount of alcohol is good for the heart'.

Dr. Samuel Mathis, from the University of Texas Medical Branch, explains that alcohol raises blood pressure by constricting your arteries and reducing compounds that would normally help them relax.

The Worst Holiday Drinks

Sugary cocktails, think margaritas, dessert martinis, or soda mixers, are especially tough on your system. It’s not just the alcohol; it’s the sugar, too. Combine the two and your blood pressure takes a double hit. High-alcohol-content drinks like Manhattans don’t help either.

The Danger of Binge Drinking

Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, MD, of the Mayo Clinic, warns that more than three drinks in one sitting can cause temporary spikes in blood pressure. For those who binge regularly, it can lead to lasting damage. The good news? Cutting back can bring real improvements, lowering blood pressure within weeks.

Read More: Texas Executive Order Addresses THC Sales Amid Legislative Debate

Bottom Line for Texans

Enjoy the holidays, but do it responsibly. Stress less, eat smarter, and if you drink, keep it moderate. Your heart will thank you, and you’ll be around to celebrate many more Texas holidays.

Sources: Mayo Clinic / UTMB / The healthy RD