It’s considered a fact that light to moderate alcohol intake reduces heart risk. But a new study says that this is not so.

Published in BMJ, the study reviewed more than 50 other studies that linked drinking habits and cardiovascular health for more than 260,000 people.

The results show that individuals who consume 17 percent less alcohol per week have on average a 10 percent reduced risk of coronary artery disease, lower blood pressure, and a lower BMI.

In particular, the researchers found that people with a gene that leads to lower alcohol consumption had superior cardiac health. This genetic variant, called the “alcohol dehydrogenase 1B” gene, is known to break down alcohol at a quicker pace.

This rapid breakdown causes unpleasant symptoms and has been found to lead to lower levels of alcohol consumption over time.

By using this genetic marker as an indicator of lower alcohol consumption, the research team was able to identify links between these individuals and improved cardiovascular health.

Over the years, many studies have indicated that a light to moderate amount of alcohol daily protects the heart but my concern is that people use this as an excuse to drink.

This new study shows that the best way to heart health may be to eliminate alcohol altogether.