New research suggests that drinking a small amount of wine, especially as part of a Mediterranean diet, may lower the risk of serious heart problems in people at high risk for cardiovascular disease.
The study, published in the European Heart Journal, found that moderate wine consumption can cut the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events by up to 50%.
The research, led by Professor Ramon Estruch from the University of Barcelona, is part of a larger Spanish study on the Mediterranean diet.
This diet is rich in olive oil, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, and avoids processed and sugary foods.
Participants were older adults at high risk for heart disease, with conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart problems.
Unlike previous studies that relied on self-reported wine consumption, this research used a more accurate method. Researchers measured tartaric acid, a chemical found in grapes and wine, in participants’ urine.
This provided a reliable way to track wine intake.
Over four to five years, 1,232 participants were followed. During this time, 685 experienced serious heart problems like heart attacks or strokes.
Researchers found that light-to-moderate wine drinkers—those who consumed between half a glass and one glass per day—were significantly less likely to have heart problems compared to those who drank little or no wine.
Key Findings
- Moderate Wine Consumption: Drinking half to one glass of wine daily reduced the risk of heart problems by 50%.
- Light Drinking: Even smaller amounts (one glass per week to less than half a glass per day) lowered the risk by 38%.
- Excessive Drinking: Drinking more than one glass per day eliminated the protective effects and could be harmful.
These benefits were most apparent in people following a Mediterranean diet, suggesting that the combination of healthy eating and moderate wine consumption plays a key role.
Researchers believe the protective effects of wine come from antioxidants and other compounds in grapes that support heart health. However, they emphasize that moderation is essential. Drinking too much wine or alcohol can lead to serious health issues.
Professor Estruch highlighted the importance of drinking wine responsibly as part of a healthy diet. “We found a much greater protective effect of wine than seen in earlier studies. Moderate wine consumption may explain part of the heart benefits of the Mediterranean diet,” he said.
Experts also note that the findings apply mainly to older adults in Mediterranean countries. For women, recommended amounts are about half of what men can consume, and wine should always be enjoyed with meals.
While this study strengthens the case for moderate wine consumption, it doesn’t mean everyone should start drinking. The researchers acknowledge that other factors, like lifestyle and overall diet, play a big role in heart health. They also point out the need for more research on how wine affects different populations and age groups.
If you already enjoy wine, this study suggests that light-to-moderate drinking as part of a Mediterranean diet may help protect your heart. However, the key is moderation, as too much wine can cancel out the benefits.
Always consider your health needs and consult with a doctor if you’re unsure about alcohol’s role in your diet.
If you care about heart disease, please read studies that herbal supplements could harm your heart rhythm, and how eating eggs can help reduce heart disease risk.
For more health information, please see recent studies that apple juice could benefit your heart health, and results showing yogurt may help lower the death risks in heart disease.
