Final answer:
To lower blood pressure, men should limit intake to 2 alcoholic drinks per day and women to 1. Excessive drinking can lead to health issues like high blood pressure and kidney failure. Moderation is key alongside a balanced diet and active lifestyle.
Step-by-step explanation:
To lower blood pressure (BP), it is recommended that if alcohol is consumed, it should be done so in moderation. Specifically, the guideline suggests limiting alcoholic drinks to up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. Consuming more than this amount can significantly increase the risk of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is known to be a risk factor in the development of kidney disorders and can ultimately lead to kidney failure.
It is also noted that alcoholic drinks contribute to the intake of extra calories and can contain high levels of sugar, sodium, and saturated fat, which should be consumed in limited quantities for overall health. For instance, it's advised to consume less than 10 percent of daily calories from added sugars and saturated fats. Consuming alcohol in excess can go beyond the daily recommended intake of these substances, disturbing the balance of a healthy diet.
Therefore, to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent conditions such as metabolic syndrome, it is crucial to watch the consumption of alcoholic beverages, alongside a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while being physically active and maintaining a healthy body weight.