The question comes up every winter, is a nightly glass of red wine good for the heart. Earlier research found that moderate drinkers sometimes showed lower rates of heart disease, and red wine’s antioxidants helped fuel a popular narrative. A recent overview from Mass General Brigham argues that the relationship is more complicated, and that drinking wine is not recommended as a strategy to reduce heart disease risk.
Shady Abohashem, MD, MPH, notes that alcohol affects the body differently depending on frequency and amount, and that excessive drinking is linked with high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. He points to research exploring connections between light to moderate drinking and reduced stress signals in the brain, which were associated with fewer heart attacks and strokes. At the same time, other studies connect alcohol intake to higher risks, including stroke, dementia, and late life depression. Any amount of alcohol over time is also associated with higher risk of certain cancers.
When it comes to wine specifically, the article emphasizes there is no solid evidence that drinking wine improves heart health. Some of the apparent benefit seen in earlier studies may reflect lifestyle differences, people who drink lightly to moderately often have healthier habits overall than people who abstain or drink heavily. The American Heart Association is cited as saying more research is needed, and it recommends focusing on evidence based habits such as exercise, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Resveratrol is addressed directly. This antioxidant is found in wine, and some studies suggest it can lower cholesterol and blood pressure at moderate intake, but results are mixed. Importantly, resveratrol is also available without alcohol, in blueberries and grape skins. Pinot noir is described as having a higher concentration compared to many other wines, and red wine generally contains more than white.
If someone chooses to drink, the guidance is moderation. U.S. dietary guidelines define one standard drink of wine as 4 ounces, and recommend limits by sex. The clearest heart friendly move, however, is the daily pattern, movement, sleep, stress management, and a diet built around plants.