Study posits that consumption of white wine may lower the likelihood of cardiac arrest
In a groundbreaking study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, researchers led by Dr. Huihuan Luo have identified several lifestyle changes and modifiable factors that could potentially protect individuals from experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The study, which used data from the UK Biobank, a comprehensive biomedical database and research resource, found that addressing these risk factors could potentially prevent a significant portion of SCA cases.
The study, conducted on data from over 500,000 middle-aged and elderly Brits with an average age of 56.52, identified 56 risk factors for SCA. Among these, moderate consumption of white wine and Champagne, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, increasing fruit intake, managing psychological stress, and maintaining a positive mood emerged as potential protective factors.
The study did not investigate the underlying mechanisms of the potential cardioprotective effect of Champagne and white wine consumption. However, an accompanying editorial in the journal noted the finding as a potential 'cardioprotective effect' associated with these beverages. The latest findings bolster the body of evidence suggesting that moderate drinking may not be harmful and may even be beneficial.
Dr. Luo and his team found that eliminating the worst third of the 56 identified risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest could potentially prevent 40% of cases. If people cut out the worst two-thirds of these factors, the potential for prevention increases to 63%.
The study questioned the long-held assumption that red wine is the only alcoholic beverage with cardioprotective properties. The findings suggest that white wine and Champagne may also offer similar benefits when consumed in moderation.
Other risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest, in addition to the 56 identified in the study, include exposure to air pollution, lack of exercise, and smoking. The researchers emphasised the importance of addressing these and other modifiable risk factors to reduce the overall risk of SCA.
The lead investigator, Dr. Luo, stated that lifestyle changes were the most impactful in preventing cases of sudden cardiac arrest. He urged individuals to prioritise maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, increasing fruit intake, and managing psychological stress to reduce their risk.
Millions of people die each year due to sudden cardiac arrest. By making simple lifestyle changes and addressing modifiable risk factors, it may be possible to prevent a significant number of these tragic deaths. The study serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking medical advice when necessary to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
In the study, moderating the consumption of champagne, along with maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, increasing fruit intake, and managing psychological stress, were identified as potential protective factors against sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
The latest findings suggest that not only red wine but also white wine and champagne, when consumed in moderation, may have cardioprotective properties similar to red wine.
