raise blood pressure,” explains Bray.
“ Over time, alcohol disrupts the brain’ s ability to regulate blood pressure, while also triggering hormonal systems that encourage the body to retain sodium and water. The result is more circulating blood volume, which further increases pressure on artery walls.”
Interestingly, alcohol has a biphasic effect. In the first 12 hours after drinking, blood pressure may dip even as heart rate rises. But after this initial period, studies show that both heart rate and blood pressure climb – and can stay elevated for days if drinking is frequent.
“ Many people assume that only large quantities of alcohol are harmful, but research shows the risk of high blood pressure starts to rise at around 1.5 units per day. That’ s equivalent to just a small glass of wine or half a pint of beer,” says Bray.
Blood pressure readings consistently above 135 / 85 mmHg – lower than the clinical threshold for hypertension of 140 / 90 – have been shown to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Women appear to be more vulnerable to these effects.
“ For women, the rise in blood pressure happens more rapidly as consumption increases,” says Bray.“ The good news for both men and women is that blood pressure is one of the more modifiable risk factors. If the intake reduces, blood pressure falls.”
She urged advisers to speak to customers about getting their blood pressure checked, which can be done for free at a pharmacy.
The diabetes connection
The relationship between alcohol and diabetes is less well-known but equally important. The liver acts as the body’ s glucose reservoir and is responsible for keeping blood sugar levels within a narrow range. Consuming alcohol can inhibit the liver’ s ability to release glucose into the blood as it focuses on metabolising the alcohol. by alcohol can last for several hours after drinking, especially if a high number of drinks are consumed in a short period of time,” explains Bray.
While some studies have shown a beneficial effect of low-to-moderate alcohol consumption on insulin sensitivity, and reduced risk of developing diabetes, regular binge drinking or chronic heavy drinking can lead to insulin resistance. That makes it harder for the body to regulate blood glucose and can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Implications for advisers
For advisers, the implications are clear. While underwriting typically asks about declared consumption, a more nuanced conversation can help customers see the broader health context – and understand how regular drinking affects their protection needs.
“ Life cover, critical illness policies and income protection all rely on accurate health disclosures,” says Bray.
“ When customers appreciate that drinking isn’ t just about liver disease – but also affects blood pressure, heart attack and stroke risk and diabetes – they may be more motivated to share information and make changes.” Bray also stresses the value of revisiting alcohol discussions periodically, especially as life circumstances change.
“ Someone who drank very little in their 30s may be in a different pattern by their 50s,” she says. Ultimately, as awareness of the wider health impacts grows, advisers have a role to play in helping customers make informed choices – both about protection and their long-term wellbeing.
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“ Alcoholic drinks can cause an immediate spike in blood glucose levels due to the sugar and carbohydrate in them. The impairment of the liver
August 2025 | 29