New research published in the European Heart Journal reveals that drinking small to moderate amounts of wine as part of a Mediterranean diet may help reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular diseases in individuals with elevated health risks.

The study, led by Professor Ramon Estruch of the University of Barcelona and Hospital Clinic Barcelona, is part of a larger effort to explore the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. This diet emphasizes olive oil, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, while minimizing processed and sugary foods. Participants in the study either had type-2 diabetes or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart conditions.

Accurate Measurement Yields Clearer Results

Previous studies on wine and heart health have had mixed results, often relying on self-reported consumption. To address this, the researchers used a more reliable method—measuring tartaric acid levels in participants’ urine. Tartaric acid, found naturally in grapes and wine, provides an objective measure of recent wine consumption.

The study followed 1,232 participants for four to five years, tracking their health outcomes. Researchers discovered that those who drank light to moderate amounts of wine (half to one glass per day) had a 50% lower risk of experiencing cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, compared to those who drank little or no wine. Even lighter drinking, such as one glass per week up to half a glass per day, was associated with a 38% reduction in risk. However, drinking more than one glass per day eliminated these benefits.

A Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Professor Estruch emphasized that moderate wine consumption is most beneficial when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle. He noted, “The reduction in cardiovascular risk we observed with moderate wine consumption is significant—greater even than some medications like statins. This highlights the potential value of incorporating wine responsibly into a balanced Mediterranean diet.”

He also noted that while the findings are promising, they apply primarily to older adults in Mediterranean populations. The protective effects of wine appear to emerge after the age of 35 to 40, and the recommended amounts for women are half those for men.

Broader Implications

An editorial accompanying the study, authored by Professor Giovanni de Gaetano and colleagues from Italy, praised the innovative use of tartaric acid as a biomarker for wine consumption. They noted that while the findings strengthen the case for moderate wine consumption as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle, it is essential to consider broader factors such as drinking patterns and overall dietary habits.

The study underscores the importance of moderation. Drinking wine in excess can negate its benefits, making responsible consumption key to achieving positive health outcomes. Future research will continue to explore how dietary habits and lifestyle choices interact to affect heart health.

In summary, this research provides encouraging evidence that moderate wine consumption, as part of a Mediterranean diet, may support heart health—especially for individuals at higher cardiovascular risk.

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