Alcohol consumption has been shown to have both positive and negative effects on cholesterol levels in the body. Moderate alcohol consumption can raise levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also known as "good" cholesterol, which can help protect against heart disease. However, it can also increase levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
According to a study published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation [3], moderate alcohol consumption can raise HDL cholesterol levels by up to 12%. However, the same study found that alcohol consumption can also increase triglyceride levels, which can also contribute to heart disease.
Another study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information [2] showed that moderate alcohol consumption can increase LDL cholesterol levels by up to 10%. This study also found that heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of heart disease by up to 300%.
It is important to note that the effects of alcohol on cholesterol levels can vary depending on individual factors such as age, sex, genetics, and overall health. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to alcohol consumption habits.
Sources:
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7230699/
[3] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.102.19.2347.