The effects of different alcoholic drinks on lipids, insulin and haemostatic and inflammatory markers in older men

Wannamethee, S.G., Lowe, G.D.O., Shaper, G., Whincup, P.H., Rumley, A., Walker, M. and Lennon, L. (2003) The effects of different alcoholic drinks on lipids, insulin and haemostatic and inflammatory markers in older men. Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 90(6), pp. 1080-1087.

Abstract

Light to moderate drinking is associated with lower risk of coronary heart (CHD) than non-drinkers. We have examined the relationships between total alcohol intake and type of alcoholic beverage and several potential biological mechanisms. We carried out the study in 3158 men aged 60-79 years drawn from general practices in 24 British towns with no history of myocardial infarction, stroke or diabetes and who were not on warfarin. Total alcohol consumption showed a significant positive dose-response relationship with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), coagulation factor IX, haematocrit, blood viscosity, and tissue plasminogen (t-PA) antigen, and an inverse dose-response relationship with insulin, fibrinogen, von Wille- brand factor (vWF) and triglycerides after adjustment for possible confounders. Total alcohol consumption showed weak associations with plasma viscosity and fibrin D-dimer, and no association with factors VII,VIII, or C-reactive protein (CRP). Wine was specifically associated with lower CRP, plasma viscosity, factor VIII and triglycerides. The findings are consistent with the suggestion that HDL-C in particular but also insulin and haemostatic factors may contribute to the beneficial effect of light to moderate drinking on risk of CHD. Wine has effects that may confer greater protection than other alcoholic beverages.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Rumley, Dr Ann and Lowe, Professor Gordon
• Authors: Wannamethee, S.G., Lowe, G.D.O., Shaper, G., Whincup, P.H., Rumley, A., Walker, M., and Lennon, L.
• Subjects: R Medicine > RC Internal medicine; Q Science > QP Physiology
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Journal Name: Thrombosis and Haemostasis
• Publisher: Schattauer GmbH, Stuttgart
• ISSN: 0340-6245
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2003 Schattauer GmbH, Stuttgart
• First Published: First published in Thrombosis and Haemostasis 90(6):1080-1087
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the publisher