Can people with hyperlipidemia drink alcohol?

Written by Luo Juan
Endocrinology
Updated on June 22, 2025
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This depends on the situation. If it's just simple hyperlipidemia, it is generally considered appropriate to limit alcohol consumption. Studies have shown that alcohol can increase the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in the plasma, which is a positive aspect. However, it can also increase the synthesis of triglycerides. As long as alcohol intake is kept below 30 grams per day, or hard liquor does not exceed 50 grams per day, the impact on blood lipids is relatively small. However, it is not advocated to increase plasma HDL levels through drinking. Therefore, if there are no other factors that contraindicate alcohol consumption, such as poor liver function or some acute cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events, it is appropriate to limit alcohol consumption in cases of simple hyperlipidemia, ideally not exceeding 30 grams per day or 50 grams per day for hard liquor.

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What exercise should be done every day for hyperlipidemia?

People with high blood lipids, if they do not have significant heart or lung disease, can participate in some aerobic exercises: such as swimming, tennis, volleyball, basketball, badminton, and square dancing. These exercises are aerobic and can help with weight loss. Exercise can consume excess body fat and lower blood lipids. It also enhances heart vitality, improves vascular elasticity, increases blood flow, and increases lung capacity, enhancing physical resistance and overall physical fitness, which can also help to reduce blood lipids.

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Can people with hyperlipidemia eat shrimp?

People with high blood lipids can eat shrimp, but they should eat it in moderation and not in large quantities. Eating shrimp often and in small amounts can supplement the body with high-quality proteins, minerals, and trace elements. Shrimp also contains substances that can enhance the body's immunity, thereby increasing the body's resistance. The diet of people with high blood lipids should primarily consist of low-fat, low-salt, and low-sugar foods. They should avoid fried foods and foods high in fat and cholesterol, eat more vegetables and fruits to prevent an increase in blood lipids, reduce arteriosclerosis, and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

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Can people with hyperlipidemia drink alcohol?

If hyperlipidemia can exclude some secondary causes or diseases, moderate alcohol consumption is permissible, because alcohol can increase the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in the plasma. However, research has confirmed that long-term excessive drinking can inhibit the oxidation of fatty acids in the liver and increase the synthesis of fatty acids, leading to excessive production of triglycerides and raising the level of triglycerides in the plasma. Therefore, it is recommended that alcohol intake be generally less than 30 grams per day, and for spirits, not exceed 50 grams per day. Moderate drinking is acceptable, but of course, this excludes cases where alcohol consumption is not permissible, such as in patients with liver or kidney failure or acute complications of diabetes. If the overall physical function is stable and it is merely a case of hyperlipidemia, moderate alcohol intake is permissible.

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Can hyperlipidemia cause dizziness?

Hyperlipidemia can cause symptoms of dizziness. In addition to dizziness, if it leads to arteriosclerosis, patients may also experience discomfort in the precordial area, such as chest tightness and chest pain. If arteriosclerosis occurs in the lower limb arteries, some patients may also develop intermittent claudication. Therefore, hyperlipidemia is a very dangerous risk factor. It can lead to coronary heart disease, angina, cerebral infarction, and even pancreatitis, fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and other severe problems. For patients with hyperlipidemia, it is crucial to actively lower blood lipids, persist in exercising and losing weight, and maintain a low-salt, low-fat diet. Only by effectively controlling hyperlipidemia can we better prevent the development of arteriosclerosis.

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Foods to avoid for high blood lipids

Foods that should be avoided for high blood lipid mainly include greasy foods. First, foods like braised pork and deep-fried dishes should be avoided. Second, it is best not to consume animal fats, and instead, opt for vegetable oils that contain unsaturated fatty acids. Third, animal organs are not recommended. The overall diet should be light, with an emphasis on eating more vegetables and fruits, which are more suitable.