post 27 - Circulatory system 3
The
circulatory system includes the heart; a system of vessels called
arteries, veins, and capillaries; and blood. Blood is pumped by the
heart through these vessels, causing “circulation” throughout the body.
You may have read about some positive effects that alcohol can have on
this system. Studies in adults have shown that a glass of alcohol (beer,
wine, or distilled spirits) each day can help heart function. Drinking
alcohol in moderation can help keep the balance of fat in the blood in
the right proportions. This can help lower the chances of developing
blocked arteries or blood clots. But the science is clear that drinking
more than two drinks each day may cause harm. Large amounts of alcohol
can affect how the heart works. If the heart isn’t pumping blood
throughout the body effectively, other organs may suffer from lack of
oxygen or nutrients. If the person drinking has clogged blood vessels,
the heart has to work even harder. Have you ever noticed a person with
red eyes and red, blotchy skin? These can be signs of cell damage,
caused when small blood vessels plug up, starving the tissues of oxygen.
Blood vessels also can break in the stomach and esophagus, leading to
bleeding and even death
The bodily system consisting of the heart, blood vessels, and blood that
circulates blood throughout the body, delivers nutrients and other
essential materials to cells, and removes waste products. Also called cardiovascular system
