Red wine has long been associated with winter warmth and healthy indulgence. It’s even known for its potential cardiovascular benefits due to its polyphenol content, especially resveratrol. But the latest findings don’t prove this link to justify red wine consumption. In fact, it can be just as bad as other spirits.
The historical association between moderate drinking and reduced risk of heart disease stems primarily from observational studies that show correlation, not causation, between moderate drinking and cardiovascular health. This correlation appears to be related to certain antioxidants found in red wine, chief among them resveratrol, which has demonstrated potential cardioprotective effects in laboratory settings and animal studies.
However, resveratrol’s touted benefits have not yet been conclusively proven in human trials, and research results on its cardiovascular effects are conflicting or inconclusive. Additionally, it’s unclear whether red wine produces enough resveratrol to have an effect. A person must consume a certain amount of resveratrol to have a protective effect, which means drinking glass after glass of red wine. The risk to your system far outweighs the so-called minor benefit.
Additionally, the potential risks associated with drinking alcohol, even in moderation, cannot be ignored. It may cause adverse effects in other organ systems, especially the liver. Drinking alcohol, including red wine, can have adverse effects on the liver, leading to conditions such as fatty liver disease, inflammation, and in more severe cases, cirrhosis.
Alcohol affects receptors in blood vessels near the heart that help maintain blood pressure. Therefore, it can cause high blood pressure and promote arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. If you have underlying cardiomyopathy (i.e., thickening of the heart), any level of alcohol can actually be toxic to heart muscle cells and may lead to heart failure. Alcohol increases stress hormones such as cortisol, which increases heart rate and blood pressure.
Additionally, the potential cardiovascular benefits of red wine can often be obtained from other sources within a healthier lifestyle. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, coupled with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management, can significantly boost heart health without drinking alcohol.
For people with a history of alcohol-related problems, liver disease, or other health problems, even moderate drinking may pose more risks than benefits. That’s why women shouldn’t drink more than one drink a day and men shouldn’t drink more than two drinks a day. While moderation is still key, you should place equal emphasis on comprehensive lifestyle measures rather than relying on specific beverages to maintain cardiovascular health.
