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Red Wine - Benefits and Risks

In this article, we'll look at the research on red wine consumption to help you decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

Wine is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world, having been consumed for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Especially in light of red wine's place in the Mediterranean diet , it has earned a reputation as the healthiest alcoholic beverage. After all, it has health-promoting antioxidants. But do those benefits justify drinking a glass of wine on a regular basis?

�Research suggests that moderate wine consumption may provide several potential benefits for overall health. However, it�s important to note that these benefits may vary depending on the type of wine consumed, particularly red and white wine,� says Lauren Manacher, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, a Charleston-based registered dietitian.

May Reduce Inflammation in Your Body

�Red wine has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects,� says Gould. A 2024 study found that drinking red wine may significantly reduce certain markers of inflammation associated with atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque on the walls of arteries. Interestingly, this was true for healthy adults, but not for those at high risk for heart disease. Other studies have confirmed the anti-inflammatory benefits of red wine consumption. This effect is also due to the antioxidants in red wine, which may help counteract oxidative stress, which can damage cells and lead to inflammation.

May Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline

"Some studies suggest that moderate wine consumption, especially red wine, may be associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and some neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease," says Manacher. For example, a 2024 review found that drinking red wine may help prevent dementia. This is, again, thanks to the antioxidants in red wine, which may help prevent oxidative stress and inflammation.

However, the link between wine and cognitive health is still controversial and uncertain, so more research is needed to confirm this potential benefit.

While red and white wine have similar nutritional properties and alcohol content, red wine contains more antioxidants, the compounds responsible for many of its health benefits.

Red wine contains antioxidants

"Red wine contains powerful antioxidants like resveratrol, which have been shown to improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress in the body," Gould says. It also contains tannins, which may provide additional benefits, especially for heart health. �The tannins found in grape skins and seeds have antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative stress and support blood vessel health,� says Michelle Ruttenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN , a preventive cardiologist and dietitian.

But what if you prefer white wine to red? Unfortunately, you won�t get as many health-promoting antioxidants. �White wine does contain antioxidants, but they�re not as potent, so it doesn�t have the same heart-healthy benefits as red wine,� says Gould.

Risks and Downsides

Can Disrupt Your Sleep
While many people rely on their nightly beverage to help them wind down before bed, this habit may actually be worsening the quality of your sleep. Research shows that even drinking just two drinks before bed can disrupt your sleep . Specifically, the study found that drinking alcohol delayed and shortened REM sleep, a phase of sleep. The more participants drank, the worse their REM sleep was. REM sleep is essential for consolidating memories, improving brain function, and regulating emotions, among other functions.

Interacts with your medications

�Wine can interact with some medications, causing adverse effects or reducing their effectiveness,� says Manacher. Some of the medications that can interact with alcohol include those used for allergies, anxiety, epilepsy, arthritis, ADHD, depression, diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep problems, and more.

May Increase Cancer Risk

Alcohol is classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. �Excessive or long-term alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of various cancers,� says Manacher. These include cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, liver, rectum, colon, and breast cancer.

Can Cause Alcohol Dependence

�Regular or excessive drinking can lead to alcohol-related problems, including addiction, liver damage, and an increased risk of certain cancers,� says Manacher.

Risk factors for developing alcohol dependence or alcohol abuse include drinking before age 15, a genetic predisposition or family history of alcohol problems, and a history of mental health disorders or trauma.