Irregular Heartbeat Linked To Alcohol

New research shows consuming large quantities of alcohol may increase the risk of developing an irregular heartbeat.

Researchers studied more than 47,000 men and women. Participants were given questionnaires that assessed how often they drank and what type of alcohol they consumed. It was found that men consumed an average of about 28 grams of alcohol each day, while the women consumed about 14 grams.

During the follow-up period, more than 550 participants developed atrial fibrillation -- a type of irregular heartbeat. Researchers say there was a slight correlation between increasing alcohol consumption and the development of atrial fibrillation in men. However, this link was not observed among women. Men who consumed the most alcohol had a 46-percent increased risk for atrial fibrillation, while women who consumed the most alcohol had a 14-percent increased risk of developing the condition.

Thus researchers conclude saying that consumption of alcohol was associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation or flutter in men. However in women, moderate consumption of alcohol did not seem to be associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation or flutter.