Can vodka help prevent heart disease?

New trial aims to investigate the health benefits of a daily shot of vodka

Woman drinking, news, Marie Claire
Woman drinking, news, Marie Claire

New trial aims to investigate the health benefits of a daily shot of vodka

Most of us are used to having a shot of vodka in a cocktail at the end of a hard week.

But the clear spirit could soon be recommended on a daily basis to help prevent heart disease!

Dutch scientists are currently conducting a trial to discover how vodka may work to protect against the condition.

Previous studies have found moderate amounts of alcohol can have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body and can boost levels of 'good' HDL cholesterol.

Conditions like Type II diabetes and heart disease have been linked to inflammation in the arteries. This inflammation can lead to a build up of 'bad' LDL cholesterol, raised blood pressure and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Now the trial in the Netherlands is hoping to discover if a daily shot of vodka can prevent inflammation and congestion in the arteries.

Healthy men will be given a drink of 100ml of vodka mixed with orange juice every day to test its benefits, says the Daily Mail.

After one year, scientists will measure the amount of inflammation in their arteries to see if the vodka has had any effect.

But until the results of the trial are published, we don't recommend indulging in daily daiquiris for 'their health benefits'...

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE LATEST HEALTH NEWS AND UPDATES

The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.