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Barcelona, Spain — Drinking a small to moderate amount of wine may significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease in people at high risk, particularly when paired with a Mediterranean diet, according to a study published in the European Heart Journal.
The research, led by Professor Ramon Estruch from the University of Barcelona and the Hospital Clinic Barcelona, highlights a 50% reduction in cardiovascular events for individuals who consumed half to one glass of wine daily. This benefit, however, disappears with higher wine consumption.
A New Approach to Studying Wine and Health
Unlike previous studies that relied on self-reported wine consumption, this research used urinary levels of tartaric acid—a chemical found in grapes and wine—as an objective measure of intake. Participants in the study, part of the larger PREDIMED trial, provided urine samples and dietary questionnaires at the study’s start and after one year on a Mediterranean diet.
The Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, was key to the study. All participants were free of cardiovascular disease at the start but were at high risk due to factors like type 2 diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, or obesity.
Over four to five years of follow-up, researchers observed 685 cases of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, strokes, and deaths. Light-to-moderate wine drinkers saw a significant reduction in risk compared to those who abstained or drank very little.
Key Findings
- Light-to-Moderate Wine Drinkers: Risk reduced by 50% for those drinking half to one glass daily.
- Light Drinking: Risk reduced by 38% for those drinking one glass weekly to less than half a glass daily.
- Excessive Drinking: No protective effect observed for individuals consuming more than one glass per day.
The findings suggest that moderate wine consumption may amplify the cardiovascular benefits of the Mediterranean diet.
Expert Insights
Professor Estruch emphasized the significance of using biomarkers like tartaric acid to more accurately measure wine intake. “A reduction in cardiovascular risk of 50% is much greater than what some medications, like statins, can achieve,” he noted.
However, the study’s design does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Factors such as lifestyle, dietary patterns, and individual health conditions may also play a role.
In an accompanying editorial, Professor Giovanni de Gaetano of IRCCS NEUROMED, Italy, called for more refined research. “This study underscores the value of biomarkers in understanding the complex relationship between dietary habits, alcohol consumption, and cardiovascular health,” he said.
The Importance of Moderation
The study reinforces the message that moderation is key. While moderate wine consumption, particularly during meals, may support cardiovascular health, excessive intake negates these benefits.
The findings also highlight demographic considerations, such as age and gender. “For women, moderate consumption should be half that of men and always consumed with meals,” Professor Estruch added.
A Step Forward in Nutritional Research
By integrating biomarkers into nutritional studies, this research sets a new standard for understanding the link between wine and health. As scientists continue to explore the intricacies of diet, lifestyle, and health outcomes, the study offers hope for those seeking heart-healthy dietary strategies.
For more details, see the full study: Ramon Estruch et al, Urinary tartaric acid as a biomarker of wine consumption and cardiovascular risk: the PREDIMED trial, European Heart Journal (2024). DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae804
