Blood Clotting Factors
Blood clotting factors are important players in the immune system. They are responsible for stopping bleeding and a number of other bodily defenses. However, those with atherosclerosis may be at risk because blood born clots have the potential to stop blood flow.
The Effect of Wine on Blood Clotting Factors
Alcohol has a direct effect on the blood clotting pathway. This is important because if a person has narrowed arteries, a small blood clot can lead to myocardial infarction, or a heart attack.
An intermediate in the clotting pathway is a molecule by the name of fibrinogen. Low levels of fibrinogen decreases blood platelets ability to clump together and form clots. Consequently, low levels of fibrinogen decrease a person’s chance of developing Coronary Heart Disease.
Its relationship with wine is clear; alcohol consumption is inversely correlated with fibrinogen levels. In addition, there is a positive association between plasminogen levels, fibrinolytic activity and platelet aggregation inhibition and moderate alcohol consumption. Although complicated, one of the mechanisms for wine’s cardio-protective effects is its ability to decrease the bloods natural tendency to form clots. Wine also stimulates the release of Nitric Oxide, which reduces the pressure and stress associated with narrow arteries in the Peripheral Cardiovascular System.
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