Only non-smokers benefit from the effects of moderate drinking

A study of over 20,000 people in the UK found moderate drinkers who were non-smokers were 40 per cent less likely to have a stroke than non-drinkers.

For smokers, the protective effect of sensible drinking was eradicated.

The research by Cambridge University examined 22,254 people over 12 years, there were nearly 900 strokes in total.

It is thought that moderate drinking reduces stroke risk because alcohol thins the blood, which prevents clots forming, and in the same way cholesterol is carried in the bloodstream, reducing the risk of the build-up of fatty deposits in the blood vessels.

Drinking large amounts increases the chance of a stroke by raising blood pressure. Similarly smoking increases the chances of blood clotting, raising the risk of stroke.

Joe Korner from The Stroke Association says, ‘The links between smoking and stroke are clear – 10 per cent of stroke deaths and a quarter of all strokes are linked to smoking. So giving up smoking is a vital step in reducing your risk of stroke. It is also important to note that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol does not protect against haemorrhagic strokes - those caused by a bleed, and in some cases it may in fact increase the risk. And we know that drinking more than the recommended alcohol limit increases your risk of all types of stroke.’