Merlot, malbec, cabernet sauvignon—whether it’s a matter of selecting your favorite or your potential vice, red wine has enjoyed a VIP status in the world of alcoholic beverages due to its perceived health benefits. However, recent research increasingly suggests that no quantity of alcohol is genuinely beneficial for your well-being.
For instance, a groundbreaking report published by the New York Times challenged earlier studies that suggested moderate alcohol consumption had advantages, prompting some experts to discourage any alcohol intake. Notably, in January 2023, Canada revised its public health guidelines, advocating a restriction on alcohol consumption to a maximum of two drinks per week.
Conversely, there are those who argue that the occasional glass of Syrah could still offer potential benefits, citing extensive research highlighting the link between red wine consumption and reduced inflammation.
This ongoing debate has left many avid red wine enthusiasts pondering the true place of their beloved beverage in the health landscape. Is red wine truly a boon to your well-being, or merely another option for a leisurely happy hour drink? To provide clarity, we delve into the latest research findings.
The benefits of red wine
or generations, red wine has earned praise as a potential preventive elixir against a range of ailments. As an integral component of the traditional Mediterranean diet, it has particularly garnered recognition for its positive effects on heart health.
Bianca Tamburello, RDN, representing FRESH Communications, highlights, “Red wine is rich in the antioxidant resveratrol, which several studies suggest may safeguard blood vessels and reduce levels of LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol.” According to the Mayo Clinic, red wine’s capacity to lower harmful cholesterol could play a role in preventing coronary artery disease, a primary risk factor for heart attacks.
Red wine distinguishes itself from other alcoholic beverages due to its superior antioxidant content, boasting ten times the polyphenol antioxidants found in white wine. Tamburello explains that this disparity arises from the prolonged grape soaking process. This advantage sets red wine apart from certain alcohols, such as vodka, which lacks antioxidants. Generally, a diet rich in antioxidants contributes to inflammation reduction, potentially reducing the risk of diseases associated with oxidative stress, including certain types of cancer.
Furthermore, moderate red wine consumption has been associated with potential benefits for gut health. A 2018 study suggests that the polyphenols in red wine might serve as prebiotics, nourishing beneficial gut microbiota. In another study conducted in 2020, red wine consumption was linked to increased microbiome diversity.
Some drawbacks of drinking red wine
Before you savor that nightly glass of merlot, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits of red wine against its inherent risks—because there are indeed risks involved. One notable concern is the “empty” calories found in alcohol, which can swiftly contribute to weight gain. Furthermore, for some individuals, regular alcohol consumption can gradually evolve into a slippery slope, leading to overindulgence and the development of alcohol use disorder.
Moreover, the more you consume, the higher your likelihood of developing various health conditions. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), there exists a clear association between alcohol consumption and the development of cancers affecting the head, neck, breast, esophagus, liver, and rectum. (It’s worth noting that, as per the NCI, moderate red wine consumption has not been linked to prostate or colorectal cancer.)
Excessive alcohol intake can also lead to conditions such as pancreatitis, liver cirrhosis, and high blood pressure, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although red wine itself is not specifically linked to these conditions, indulging in it during episodes of overconsumption will not mitigate the associated risks posed by excessive alcohol intake.
The bottom line
Ultimately, red wine’s potential upsides for health aren’t dramatic enough to take up drinking.
“If you don’t currently drink wine or alcohol, it’s not recommended to start,” says Tamburello. “The risks of drinking alcohol outweigh the possible benefits.”
Her recommendation for getting more heart-healthy antioxidants? Eat more whole foods high in resveratrol, like grapes, blueberries, and cranberries.
Then again, Tamburello also claims that a glass of red wine enjoyed here or there as part of a social occasion or celebration can be part of a balanced diet. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines “moderate drinking” as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. If you currently imbibe, be sure to stick to these limits.