New blood pressure guidelines recommend less alcohol

(KYMA, KECY/CBS) - Health experts have released updated guidelines for managing blood pressure, including an earlier start to treatment and a stronger focus on cutting out alcohol.

For those who drink, the new recommendations suggest consuming less than before, or ideally none.

Previously, guidelines allowed one drink per day for women and up to two for men. Now, it's less than one for women and less than two for men.

They say total abstinence is ideal, citing growing evidence of alcohol's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Experts also stress controlling blood pressure to lower dementia risk and highlight its importance for people who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.