Reviewed by Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia
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Wine is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages worldwide, with people drinking it for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Especially in light of red wine’s place in the Mediterranean diet, it has gotten a reputation as the healthiest alcoholic drink. It has, after all, health-promoting antioxidants. But do these benefits justify having a glass of wine on a regular basis?
“Research suggests that moderate wine consumption may offer several potential benefits to overall health. However, it’s important to note that these benefits may vary based on the type of wine consumed, specifically red and white wine,” says Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD, CLEC, Charleston-based registered dietitian.
This article dives into the research on drinking red wine to help you decide if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Related: 6 Best Anti-Inflammatory Drinks You Should Be Buying, According to a Dietitian
Potential Health Benefits
May Support Your Heart Health
A number of studies have linked red wine consumption with heart health benefits, including reduced LDL (known as “bad”) cholesterol levels, better blood pressure and blood vessel function and more. “The presence of antioxidants like resveratrol and flavonoids in red wine may contribute to improved heart health by promoting healthy blood vessels and reducing the risk of blood clot formation,” says Manaker. Drinking red wine in moderation may also reduce your risk of developing coronary heart disease, says Randy Gould, DO, FACC, a cardiologist at Manhattan Cardiology in NYC.
Might Reduce Inflammation in Your Body
“Red wine has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects,” says Gould. A 2024 study found that drinking red wine may significantly decrease certain markers of inflammation related to atherosclerosis—plaque buildup on the artery walls. Interestingly, this was true for healthy adults but not people at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Other studies support the anti-inflammatory benefits of red wine consumption. This effect is also thanks to red wine’s antioxidants, which may help counter oxidative stress that can damage cells and lead to inflammation.
Might Reduce Your Risk of Cognitive Decline
“Some studies suggest that moderate wine consumption, particularly red wine, may be associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and certain neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,” says Manaker. For example, a 2024 narrative review found that drinking red wine might help prevent dementia. This is, again, thanks to the antioxidants in red wine, which may help prevent oxidative stress and inflammation.
However, the relationship between wine and cognitive health is still controversial and uncertain, so more research is necessary to confirm this potential benefit.
Related: 5 Habits to Add to Your Day to Prevent Cognitive Decline
Nutrition Facts
According to the USDA, one serving (5 fl oz.) of red and white wine have the following nutrition profiles:
While red wine and white wine have similar nutrition profiles and alcohol contents, red wine has more antioxidants—the compounds responsible for most of its health benefits.
“Red wine has potent antioxidants, such as resveratrol, which have been shown to improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress in the body,” says Gould. It also has tannins, which could provide additional benefits, particularly for heart health. “Tannins, found in grape skins and seeds, have antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative stress and support blood vessel health,” says Michelle Routhenstein, M.S., RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian.
What about if you prefer white wine over red wine? Unfortunately, you won’t get quite as many health-promoting antioxidants. “White wine does have antioxidants, but they are not as strong, so it does not have the same beneficial heart effects as red wine has,” says Gould.
Risks and Downsides
May Disrupted Your Sleep
Although many people rely on a nighttime drink to wind down before bed, this habit may actually worsen your sleep quality. Research shows that even having just two drinks before bed can disrupt your sleep. Specifically, the study found that drinking alcohol delayed and shortened REM sleep, one of the sleep phases. The more participants consumed, the worse their REM sleep was. REM sleep is essential for consolidating memories, promoting brain function and regulating emotions, among other functions.
Interacts with Your Medications
“Wine can interact with certain medications, leading to adverse effects or reducing their effectiveness,” says Manaker. Some of the medications that can interact with alcohol include the ones used for allergies, anxiety, epilepsy, arthritis, ADHD, depression, diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep issues and much more.
“It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional about any potential interactions,” advises Manaker.
May Increase Your Risk of Cancer
Alcohol is classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. “Excessive or long-term consumption of alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer,” says Manaker. This includes oral, pharyngeal, laryngeal, esophageal, liver, colorectal and breast cancers.
May Cause Alcohol Dependence
“Regular or excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol-related problems, including addiction, liver damage, and increased risk of certain cancers,” says Manaker.
Risk factors for developing alcohol dependence or misuse include drinking before the age of 15, genetics or a family history of alcohol problems and mental health conditions or a history of trauma.
Need Support?
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence, misuse or addiction, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
Might Increase Your Risk of Heart Health Issues
While some studies show moderate wine consumption is generally safe and might benefit your heart health, the same is not true for excessive alcohol intake. “Heavy drinking raises blood pressure, increases triglycerides, promotes inflammation and can cause arrhythmias, all of which elevate the risk of heart disease and stroke,” says Routhenstein.
Should You Be Drinking Wine for Better Health?
Enjoying a glass of wine (AKA drinking in moderation) can be a part of a healthy eating pattern, but don’t feel like you need to start drinking wine if you aren’t already doing so to reap these benefits. Sure, drinking red wine could provide some health benefits. Still, many other foods provide the same benefits—think antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts, olive oil, spices and vegetables—without facing the same health risks.
The Bottom Line
Red wine is one of the most enjoyed alcoholic beverages around the world. And it’s known to be high in polyphenols—a type of antioxidants that may lessen your risk of heart disease and might support your brain. However, these potential benefits don’t justify starting if you don’t drink wine. There are plenty of other drinks and foods with these same benefits that don’t come with the risks of drinking alcohol, which include liver damage, sleep disruptions and alcohol dependence.
Related: 11 Easy Mocktail Ideas for Celebrating without Alcohol
Frequently asked Questions
Is wine the healthiest alcohol?
While no form of alcohol should be considered healthy, red wine stands out for its plentiful antioxidants. Research shows that red wine’s resveratrol and other antioxidants may help promote heart health and reduce inflammation when consumed in moderation. However, the benefits don’t outweigh the risks.
Is wine actually healthy for you?
While red wine might have some potential benefits when enjoyed in moderation, it may also increase your risk of health issues compared to not drinking at all. If you’re looking to improve your health, Manaker recommends focusing on eating a balanced diet, being physically active, getting enough sleep and managing stress.
Is it okay to drink wine every day?
If you don’t have contraindications due to health concerns, it’s okay to drink wine in moderation daily is okay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend limiting alcohol to no more than one five-ounce glass per day for women and no more than two five-ounce glasses per day for men.
Is red wine inflammatory?
Excessive red wine consumption could promote inflammation in the body and contribute to health issues like liver disease, cardiovascular disease and immune dysfunction, says Routhenstein. While drinking red wine in moderation might potentially reduce inflammation because of its antioxidant content, it still shouldn’t be relied on as an anti-inflammatory food, says Routhenstein.
Are two glasses of wine a day too much?
Two five-ounce glasses of wine per day fall within the health guidelines for men. However, women should limit their intake to one glass of wine per day.
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