New Year, New Habits: Excessive Alcohol Use Can Impact Heart Health
1/16/2026
DeTar Physicians Encourage Moderation as Heart Month Approaches
As the New Year begins, many people across the Crossroads commit to healthier habits through resolutions like Dry January or cutting back on alcohol. As those early resolutions fade and American Heart Month in February approaches, DeTar Healthcare System physicians are reminding the community that moderation in alcohol use plays a critical role in long-term heart health.
Excessive alcohol consumption has been strongly linked to several cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation (AFib)—a common heart rhythm disorder that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other serious complications.
“AFib is an irregular heartbeat that can cause the heart to beat fast or out of rhythm, and alcohol is a well-known trigger,” said Dr. Jasvinder Sidhu, cardiac electrophysiologist with DeTar Medical Group. “We often see patients who are surprised to learn that drinking—especially binge drinking—can disrupt the heart’s electrical system, even in people who otherwise consider themselves healthy.”
What Alcohol Can Do to the Heart
AFib symptoms may include a racing or fluttering heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest discomfort. Some people experience no symptoms at all, making the condition harder to detect without regular medical care.
So-called “holiday heart syndrome”—AFib triggered by binge drinking—has long been associated with celebrations and social gatherings. While the irregular rhythm may resolve when drinking stops, ongoing heavy alcohol use can lead to persistent AFib, high blood pressure, weakened heart muscle, heart failure, and increased stroke risk.
Regular heavy drinking—defined as more than eight drinks per week for women and more than 15 for men, or binge drinking—can strain the heart over time. According to the American College of Cardiology, eliminating alcohol abuse could prevent tens of thousands of heart attacks, AFib cases, and heart failure diagnoses nationwide.
“Alcohol affects more than just your liver,” said Dr. Mark Gonzalez, family medicine physician with DeTar Medical Group Primary Care Clinic. “It raises blood pressure, contributes to weight gain, disrupts sleep, and places extra stress on the heart. For patients working toward healthier habits in the New Year, reducing alcohol intake can make a meaningful difference.”
Moderation and Prevention Start With Primary Care
Physicians emphasize that moderation is key, and for some individuals—especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease—avoiding alcohol altogether may be the healthiest choice.
“Heart health starts with prevention,” Dr. Gonzalez added. “Regular visits with a primary care provider allow us to monitor blood pressure, discuss lifestyle habits, identify early warning signs, and refer patients for further cardiac evaluation when needed.”
For those trying to cut back, experts recommend setting alcohol-free days each week, removing alcohol from the home, drinking slowly, and choosing non-alcoholic alternatives, which are now widely available. If cutting back feels difficult, talking with a healthcare professional can provide support and guidance.
“As we head into Heart Month, it’s a good reminder that small lifestyle choices—like how much alcohol we drink—can have a big impact on our heart,” Dr. Sidhu said. “The earlier we address these habits, the better the outcomes.”
Take the Next Step for Your Heart
DeTar Healthcare System encourages members of the Crossroads community to prioritize heart health in the New Year and beyond. To find a primary care provider or schedule an appointment, visit www.mydetardoctors.com.
And, don’t miss DeTar’s Heart Health Expo on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Victoria Community Center. This free event will have vital health screenings, interactive heart education booths, engaging speakers in the Annex for the VPD’s monthly Lunch and Learn and more!
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