Health Benefits of Drinking Red Wine

No doubt, over time, wines have woven a close-knit presence across cultures, enriching their reputation through voyages from the old world to the new world wine regions. Today, as their tasteful sophistication traditionally graces celebrations and social gatherings, one element that notably underscores their allure is the claimed health benefits of drinking red wine. Whether you're an enthusiast of wines or not, the buzz surrounding the impressive red wine benefits has left no one immune to eavesdropping, from red wine being good for heart health, memory retention, cancer prevention, anti-aging, and more.

But don’t break out the corkscrew just yet. Like any health-related topic, whether red wine is healthy to drink or not is hotly debated among medical professionals, considering its alcoholic nature, typically ranging from 12%-15% in ABV. So, next time you top off an enjoyable glass of red wine after a long day, be it a delicate pinot noir or a robust cabernet, how do you discern if the so-called health benefits of red wine are guaranteed or if your day-to-day reds are nothing but touted superfoods, potentially robbing you of your wellness with their deceiving color and taste?

And even if there’s a glimmer of hope, are the red wine health benefits overrated? Do they come with side effects? Are there any precautions to consider? Can you swap a white wine for a red wine to toast health? Let’s explore the answers to these old-age questions in this handy guide, uncovering the intricate science behind the benefits of red wine layer by layer:

First of All, When Did the Conversation about Health Benefits Of Red Wine Really Begin?

It was in the late 1980s when the conversation around the health benefits of red wine truly sparked. The famous French medical researcher, the late Dr. Serge Renaud, who conducted thorough research on the dietary habits of the French population in his career, coined the term “French Paradox." This term proposed an observation that, despite the fact that French people consume a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol, they have lower rates of cardiovascular diseases compared to other western countries.

Earlier studies, although similar, relied on the belief that the French people's overall healthier lifestyle and consumption of a heart-healthy Mediterranean diet, often paired with a glass or two of red wine, likely contributed to their good health. However, what Dr. Serge identified as the reason for the French Paradox is that red wines are rich in antioxidants that create a “flushing effect,” preventing blood-clot-forming cells from clinging to the artery walls, hence reducing the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

This study on red wine benefits gained significant attention when the famous "60 Minutes" segment aired on November 17, 1919. During the show, CBS correspondent Morley Safer explored the phenomenon of the French Paradox. Safer interviewed Dr. Serge, Dr. Curtis Ellison, an American researcher, and other scientists and researchers who were studying the relationship between moderate red wine consumption and heart health.

This not only provided medical science with a new dimension to explore but also ignited a red wine fever among the audience in such a way that sales of red wine in the US jumped to 40% after the show aired and went viral.

With a Few Decades Down the Line, What’s the Current Scenario Around Health Benefits Of Red Wine?

Following the initial intrigue sparked by the French Paradox, research into the benefits of red wine gained momentum, offering more nuanced insights into its potential to improve heart health and bodily functions.

Understanding the relationship between red wine consumption and health outcomes remains complex and incomplete to this day, leading to an ongoing debate within the scientific community. Each study can only establish associations rather than cause and effect; while some suggest potential benefits, others yield conflicting results or emphasize the significant risks associated with alcohol consumption, including an increased risk of certain cancers, liver disease, and addiction.

Moreover, the red wine health benefits are likely influenced by various factors such as genetics, overall diet, lifestyle, and individual health status. What may be beneficial for one person could be harmful for another.

Additionally, the healthy elements found in red wine, are also traced in foods like berries, dark chocolate, and certain teas, providing safe options to folks that are aiming to reap benefits of drinking red wine in non-alcoholic substitutes.

Researchers continue to work on unraveling this intricate relationship between red wine and health, emphasizing the importance of moderation in red wine consumption and advocating for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle overall to promote well-being.

How Might Drinking Red Wine Improve Health For You?

With so much happening backstage, it’s evident that there isn’t a complete void when it comes to red wine health benefits. Although the health benefits of drinking red wine are widely debated and juries are divided with their opposing perspectives, there’s certainly a gray area to explore amid the black and white regarding whether red wine is healthy for you- with potential health benefits, myths, harms and precautions to consider.

But let’s first explore what makes red wine healthy for you in the first place. What’s that science hidden in this elixir that makes it worth a glass beyond heart-stirring sips, offering well-being while senses get wrapped in pleasant aromas, flavors and earthy richness?

Red wine's rich blend of phytonutrients, or plant compounds, primarily sourced from the skins, seeds, and, to a lesser extent, the stems of grapes during the fermentation process, is the primary source of its health benefits.

To delve deeper, here’re core health-giving plant compounds found in red wines along with the surprising health benefits they offer:

Polyphenols: Polyphenols, divided into two categories, are abundantly found in various forms across the plant kingdom. In red wine, numerous types of polyphenols have been identified, collectively playing a significant role in enhancing the benefits of red wine according to studies.

Primarily, polyphenols act as “antioxidants,” combating free radicals produced in response to environmental factors such as smoke, pollution and immune functions. Although the body naturally produces antioxidants to counter these free radicals, insufficient production or overwhelming external factors can lead to oxidative stress, contributing to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and cataracts.

Polyphenols also possess anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Furthermore, they are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, improved blood flow, lower cholesterol levels, and a decreased likelihood of platelet clumping.
Resveratrol: Resveratrol, a non-flavonoid polyphenol vital for protecting plants against pathogens and environmental stressors, is believed to offer similar immune-boosting benefits to humans. Research indicates that resveratrol may provide cardioprotective effects by reducing inflammation, enhancing endothelial function (the health of blood vessels’ lining), and lowering LDL cholesterol levels.

Additionally, studies have linked it to improved insulin sensitivity and anti-cancer properties, which inhibit tumor growth and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. Some studies also suggest potential neuroprotective effects, lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Flavonoids: Flavonoids, a subclass of polyphenols, contribute not only to the color, taste, and aroma of wine but also offer diverse and extensive health benefits. They are the largest antioxidants in red wines and have been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce symptoms of depression through mood enhancement and promote heart health by enhancing blood vessel function, reducing inflammation, and lowering blood pressure.

Furthermore, flavonoids serve anti-allergic effects by reducing inflammation mediated by the immune system. Certain flavonoids, like quercetin and catechins, have been investigated for their potential anti-cancer effects, inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis.
Tannins: Whether you're aware of it or not, the grippy, bitter, and astringent sensations experienced when sipping wines are caused by tannins, which are non-flavonoid polyphenol. Beyond imparting texture and structure to the wine, tannins provide numerous health benefits with each sip.

They act as antioxidants, reduce blood pressure, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria with antimicrobial properties, and promote heart health by improving blood circulation and reducing the risk of blood clot formation.
Proanthocyanidins: Proanthocyanidins, also known as condensed tannins, are a subgroup of flavonoids found abundantly in red wine. They are renowned for their numerous health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.

These compounds have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve endothelial function, and enhance insulin sensitivity. Additionally, they reduce the risk of obesity and contribute to skin health by protecting against UV radiation damage and promoting collagen synthesis.

In addition to these core health-giving polyphenol compounds in red wine, there's a wealth of secondary plant compounds that also contribute to your well-being. Anthocyanins, Ellagic Acid and Procyanidins—and the list goes on.

And yes, we can’t miss out on mentioning the other nutritious components, such as vitamins and minerals, that also add to the health benefits of red wine, albeit in relatively small amounts.

List Of Potential Health Benefits Of Drinking Red Wine:

And yes, we can’t miss out on mentioning the other nutritious components, such as vitamins and minerals, that also add to the health benefits of red wine, albeit in relatively small amounts.

Cardiovascular Health

Numerous studies investigating the red wine benefits consistently highlight red wine potential to support heart health. How? By rushing down the bloodstream with plant compounds that fill up the pump of your body with their heart-healthy goodness.

Here’s how red wine reduces the risk of coronary heart diseases such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), congestive heart failure, and hypertensive heart disease which collectively account for 1 in every 5 deaths annually in the United States, according to a 2021 report by the CDC.

Lowering LDL Cholesterol Levels (aka Bad Cholesterol)
Increase HDL Cholesterol Levels (aka Good Cholesterol)
Decreasing the Likelihood of Platelet Clumping
Enhancing Endothelial Function (The Health of Blood Vessels’ Lining)
Improving Blood Flow
Enhancing Vascular Health (The Functioning of Blood Vessels)

Type 2 Diabetes

While there’s considerable buzz surrounding red wine’s potential to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity, very few studies have conclusively claimed this. Here are the observations from two verified studies regarding the health benefits of red wine for type 2 diabetes:

A 2015 study suggested that moderate red wine consumption might lower cardiometabolic risk in individuals with type 2 diabetes by aiding glucose metabolism.
A 2018 meta-analysis by Medicine (Baltimore). found that moderate wine consumption did not reduce glucose parameters and other cardiovascular risk factors among people with type 2 diabetes.

Blood Pressure

In addition to promoting healthier blood vessels and blood flow, multiple studies have found that polyphenols like flavonoids, tannins, and proanthocyanidins may help reduce blood pressure.

However, it is important to note that these red wine benefits are associated with moderate consumption. Excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure or arrhythmia (problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat).

Brain Damage After Stroke

Many studies, like a 2015 study by Neurochem Int and an 2018 study by Med Sci Monit., have stated that the resveratrol agent found in red wine has shown significant capacity in guarding the brain after a stroke or central nervous system injury due to its positive effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death.

However, both studies demonstrated the effects of resveratrol specifically, rather than red wine, making other sources of resveratrol like grapes, berries, and peanuts handy options for such neuroprotective benefits.

Cancer

Excessive consumption of any alcohol drink, whether it’s red wine or another type, can generate toxins in the body, damaging tissues and promoting oxidation. This can be a root cause of various cancers, such as those affecting the breast, head, neck, esophageal, liver, and colorectal regions, as suggested by a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

However, there are a few studies indicating that moderate consumption of red wine might potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers. Thus, achieving a balance between the adverse effects of alcohol and the potential benefits of plant compounds is crucial!

Breast Cancer: Red wine's potential health benefits in reducing breast cancer risk remain uncertain, with some studies advocating for no alcohol consumption and others advocating for moderate consumption. For instance, a 2019 study noted that aromatase inhibitors (AIs) such as exemestane and anastrozole can lower the risk of breast cancer, both of which are substances in red wine.
Lung Cancer: A review published by Nutrients in 2017 suggested that resveratrol found in red wine might shield against lung cancer through various mechanisms such as hindering cell proliferation and tumor growth, promoting cell death in cancerous cells, and inhibiting metastasis.
Prostate Cancer: A 2019 study by J Clin Oncol. suggests that alcohol consumption may slightly lower the risk of lethal prostate cancer in cancer-free men and decrease the progression to lethal disease in men with prostate cancer, particularly with red wine. However, further research is needed to confirm these associations.

Gut Health

Even with limited research, red wine has shown traces of potential to improve your gut health through these core mechanisms.

Resveratrol in red wine alleviates gut inflammation with its antioxidant properties.
Red wine’s probiotics promote gut health by balancing gut microbiota, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption, and strengthening the gut lining.

Liver Disease

We all know how alcohol is a common cause of liver disease. A 2018 study by _ suggested that moderate alcohol intake, particularly red wine, is linked with reduced liver fibrosis in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

However, the effects are complex, as some studies counter that alcohol consumption raises the levels of uric acid and triglycerides in the body, posing potential harm to the liver. Rest. Individuals with liver disease should abstain from alcohol altogether.

Dementia

According to a 2020 report by Nutrients., researchers stated that moderate consumption of red wine appears to reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline in an age-dependent manner. This protective effect against cognitive decline is attributed to the health properties of wine, particularly its polyphenolic content and antioxidant properties. However, excessive intake can potentially promote the onset of dementia with triggers like hypertension and diabetes.

Depression

Resveratrol may boost serotonin levels, easing depression symptoms, while wine compounds could regulate serotonin transmission. Yet, even minimal alcohol intake could worsen depression, as indicated by a 2021 study on adolescents. Furthermore, those with alcohol misuse or disorder have a heightened risk of developing depression.

Vision Loss

Resveratrol found in red wine has been studied for its potential to prevent age-related vision loss like cataracts and macular degeneration by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress and providing neuroprotective properties.

Obesity

Red wine combats obesity is a myth that needs to be debunked. However, it can offer potential benefits that can assist in weight management and trim down your waistline a bit. For example, resveratrol impacts metabolism and regulates appetite. Additionally, drinking red wine fosters relaxation, which can potentially curb stress-induced overeating.

Bone Health

While some studies suggest that light-to-moderate wine consumption may benefit bones due to compounds like phenolics, phytoestrogens, and antioxidants, more research is needed to understand the real-life effects and how wine blends affect skeletal health.

Skin

Red wine is also associated with various skin health benefits due to its plant compounds offering these skin-boosting qualities:

Anti-Aging: Resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant found in red wine, is believed to offer anti-aging qualities by neutralizing free radicals that cause fine lines, wrinkles, and premature aging.
Skin Elasticity and Firming: Polyphenols are believed to support skin elasticity and firmness by inducing the production of proteins like collagen and elastin.
Skin Brightening and Even Tone: Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) found in red wine can help exfoliate the skin gently, resulting in brighter and even-toned skin.
Acne and Blemish Control: Red wines have antimicrobial qualities that can help fight acne-causing bacteria and can also calm irritated skin and lessen acne-related redness with their anti-inflammatory properties.
Reduction of Dark Circles and Puffiness: When applied topically, the anti-inflammatory properties of red wine can revitalize the delicate skin around the eyes by reducing under-eye puffiness and dark circles.

Hair

With little backing from science, it is asserted that red wine intake can improve hair health in following ways:

Antioxidant Properties: Red wine's antioxidant properties can help combat the oxidative stress that can damage hair cells and lead to hair loss or dullness.
Improved Scalp Health: The potential of red wines to improve blood circulation can nourish hair follicles and encourage healthy hair growth.
DHT Blocker:Research suggests that resveratrol inhibits the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss, especially in men.
Strengthens Hair: The flavonoids present in red wine may strengthen hair strands, reducing breakage and split ends.
Shine and Volume: Rinsing hair with red wine can let its acidic nature smooth the hair cuticle, reflecting more light and giving the appearance of shinier, fuller hair.

Longer Life

As discussed above, adhering to the principle of moderate drinking can help you mitigate the risks associated with alcohol consumption and possibly unlock the potential health benefits of red wine, ultimately contributing to an extended lifespan. A 2021 review by Antioxidants (Basel) even suggested that moderate wine consumption increases the expression of key longevity-associated genes like p53, sirtuin1, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in humans.

Note: It’s important to note that these advantages of drinking are potential, as per studies, somewhere reliable and somewhere too variable, and don’t guarantee a strict cause-and-effect relationship.

Simply drinking red wine won’t magically eliminate your bodily ailments. Various factors come into play, such as genetics, lifestyle choices, moderation in alcohol consumption, and maintaining a balanced diet.

How Do You Practice Moderation When Drinking Red Wine?

As we know, practicing moderation not only helps mitigate the harmful effects of alcohol but also lays the groundwork for the potential benefits in red wine, whether for the heart, gut, eyes, or brain.

According to the American Heart Association, adults should limit alcohol intake to 14g for women per day, equivalent to one glass of wine, and 28g for men per day, equivalent to up to two glasses of wine. Additionally, drinking wine with meals is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

Rest, it is advisable to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle and diet, as well as consult with health care professionals for proper guidance on individual health conditions and risks.

What Can Happen If You Don’t Consume Red Wine Within Moderate Limits?

Consuming red wine beyond moderation can pose hazards to your well-being. Once you cross over the limits of moderation, the potential advantages of drinking red wine become overwhelmed by the adverse effects of alcohol, leading to excessive influx in the body.

Here’re the harmful effects on health caused by excessive red wine consumption:

Alcohol Dependency/Addiction: As the brain starts rewiring due to surges of dopamine in its reward circuit.
Liver Damage: Due to liver inflammation, scarring, and impaired function.
Cardiovascular Problems: Due to high blood pressure, increased risk of stroke and heart disease.
Cancer Risk: Due to possible DNA damage by alcohol.
Digestive Issues: Digestive system can get irritated, leading to acid reflux, gastritis or constipation.
Weight Gain: Calories in red wine (around 125/glass) risk obesity- potent for diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
Mental Health Issues: Alcohol lowers inhibitions and amplifies negative feelings, - contributing to depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment & sleep disturbances.
Nervous System Damage: Neurological problems like peripheral neuropathy and impaired motor function can happen.
Weakened Immune System: Alcohol suppresses the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Fertility Issues: Excessive drinking can disrupt hormone levels and reproductive function, making it difficult to conceive.
Dehydration: As alcohol is a diuretic, it causes more urine production, leading to dehydration with symptoms such as dry mouth, headache, and fatigue.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Loss of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, folate, and magnesium might happen.
Increased Tolerance and Withdrawal Symptoms: Leading to the need for higher alcohol consumption to achieve the same effects and experiencing withdrawal symptoms like tremors, nausea, sweating, anxiety, and insomnia when not drinking.
Negative Impact on Skin Health: Booze dehydrates the skin, making it appear dull, dry, and age faster.
Risk of Alcohol Poisoning: Alcohol can be fatal if you drink it in excessive amounts.
Worsening of Existing Health Conditions: If you are experiencing health issues, it is suggested that you not drink an alcoholic drink at all!

Consuming red wine or any alcoholic drink in excess can worsen beyond hampering the healthy state of your body, putting you in risky positions such as:

Financial Burden:Alcohol addiction can lead to financial burdens, such as strains on purchases, healthcare expenses, or possible joblessness.
Social and Relationship Abuse: Alcohol abuse can strain your relationship with loved ones, causing social isolation, conflicts, and other interpersonal issues.
Legal Problems: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to impaired judgment and risky behavior, increasing the likelihood of legal issues such as DUI (driving under the influence), public intoxication, and the risk of accidents.

Who Should Not Drink Red Wine At All?

If you find yourself on this sensitive list, we strongly advise refraining from consuming red wine altogether, as its alcoholic content may pose short-term risks.

Are pregnant, suspecting pregnancy, or attempting to conceive.
Have liver illness.
Have pancreas disease linked to alcohol use.
Have heart failure or an unhealthy heart.
Have a personal or family history of alcohol consumption disorder.
Take medications that do not interact well with alcohol.
Are breastfeeding

What’s Better - Sweet or Dry Red Wine For Health Benefits?

To opt out, dry red wines make a healthier option as they contain higher levels of antioxidants like resveratrol as well as lower sugar levels than sweet red wines like "dessert," "icewine,” or “late harvest.”

Nevertheless, choosing between the two depends on individual taste preferences and dietary considerations, with moderation being the overarching guideline for reaping the health benefits while minimizing risks.

Which are the Best Red Wines For Health Benefits?

When exploring the best red wines for health benefits, consider their diverse range, from light-bodied Pinot Noir to full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. Ecah variety offers unique health benefits, from cardiovascular support to immune function enhancement. It’s crucial to select a wine for both enjoyment and health, making informed choices about which varieties to indulge in.

Here are the best red wines for health benefits, with top bottle suggestions to uncork from our wine gifts collection:

Malbec: Most famously grown in the rich terroirs of Argentina and Chile, malbec grapes grow thick-skinned and are therefore loaded with resveratrol antioxidants, offering four times more antioxidants than merlots and nearly double that of cabernet sauvignons. These smooth black cherry flavors, a silky pour, and a mocha-like finish make them perfect for toasting cardiovascular and immune health.
We Recommend: Catena Alta Malbec 2020 Wine, Catena Malbec Argentina 2021 Wine
Pinot Noir: Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins and procyanidins, Pinot Noir is the most beneficial red wine to lower cholesterol and offer protection against diseases like diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's, and heart disease. Additionally, it comes with a low sugar content and a taste that’s best defined as velvety and complex, with notes of dark cherry and earthy undertones.
We Recommend: Domaine Nicolas Rossignol Bourgogne Pinot Noir, The Vice Russian River Valley, Pinot Noir 2020
Cabernet Sauvignon: Globally beloved and abundantly planted, cabernet sauvignons come packed with unique aroma compounds and flavonoid combinations, making them capable of enhancing cardiovascular health and promoting neural cell health by stimulating the production of the amyloid precursor protein. Plus, they fight cavity-causing bacteria, making them a true win-win, bold sip!
We Recommend: Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon
Petite Sirah: Famed for their dense and hardy taste, Petite Sirahs come packed with natural tannins and antioxidants like thiol, procyanidins, and resveratrol, making them ideal for heart health and metabolism.
We Recommend: Terra D'Oro Petite Sirah, The Prisoner Wine Co. Unshackled Red Blend
Syrah/Shiraz: Known for their bold and robust flavor profile, Syrah/Shiraz wines, with their deep, dark fruit flavors, offer a powerhouse of health benefits. Packed with antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds, these reds are ideal for heart health and metabolism.
We Recommend: Penfolds RWT Bin 798 Shiraz, K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah Wine
Barbera: Barbera wine, which hails from Italy, offers overlooked health benefits. Its acidity demands oak aging, bloating flavor, and health benefits. Cooler climates and high elevations amp up its resveratrol, while lime-rich soil elevates it further. Result? Barbera wines match the health benefits of top-tier reds like pinot noir and malbec.
Cannonau (Grenache): Hailing from Sardinia, Italy, Cannonau wines are rich in resveratrol, polyphenols, and anthocyanins, contributing to heart health, reducing the risk of dementia, and preventing skin damage. Additionally, flavonoids like catechins and quercetin contribute to skin protection, symptom reduction for diabetes and arthritis, and potential Alzheimer’s prevention.

Can You Substitute White Wine For Red Wine To Reap Health Benefits?

For a wine lover, the decision between red and white wine can be fickle. Each type, red wine and white wine, presents distinct characteristics, with reds exuding richness and whites offering brightness and crispness. However, when seeking insight into their health benefits from professionals, the responses are clear-cut.

White wines contain a lower concentration of beneficial compounds such as resveratrol and flavonoids compared to red wines, as they are not fermented with skins and seeds, making a glass of red wine a healthier option. You can still enjoy white wines, but their health benefits are generally less pronounced.

Does Grape Juice Have The Same Red Wine Health Benefits?

Both derived from grapes, red wine and grape juice share the presence of antioxidants such as resveratrol, making grape juice possibly a great non-alcoholic substitute for reaping red wine’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and heart-healthy benefits.

However, it is crucial to underline that the concentration of these beneficial compounds in grape juice will be lower compared to red wine, as the fermentation process in winemaking enhances their concentration. Additionally, the grape juice lacks alcohol content, which, as per a few studies, has its own set of potential health benefits for coronary heart disease (CHD) when consumed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, there are a plethora of health benefits of drinking red wine, from heart protection to potential cancer prevention. However, moderation is key to unlocking its full potential without the risk of harm. So, raise your glass responsibly and toast to the delicate balance of indulgence and well-being.

Cheers! ????