Which of the following is associated with a lower risk of heart disease according to the study findings?

Moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease in certain studies. Research suggests that moderate alcohol intake, particularly in the form of red wine, may have a protective effect on cardiovascular health. This is believed to be due to several factors, including the presence of antioxidants such as polyphenols and the potential for moderate alcohol consumption to raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, which is known to have a protective effect against heart disease.

In contrast, high waist to hip ratio is a marker for increased body fat distribution, particularly visceral fat, which is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular issues. Current smoking is a well-established risk factor for heart disease, as it contributes to atherosclerosis and promotes inflammation and damage to the cardiovascular system. A poor diet typically characterized by high levels of saturated fats, trans fats, and processed foods can lead to obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease. Thus, moderate alcohol consumption stands out as the only factor listed that may be related to reduced heart disease risk under certain conditions.