Consuming alcohol can raise cholesterol levels because alcohol is processed through the same organ that is responsible for making cholesterol. For example, studies show that excessive drinking may increase LDL levels, which is the “bad” type of cholesterol. In addition, alcohol is known to raise triglyceride levels.
Alcohol can affect both fasting and non-fasting lipid tests However, excessive alcohol intake may cause an increase in triglyceride levels immediately following intake and after fasting.