This antioxidant-packed drink might benefit your heart health.

But do the benefits outweigh the risks?

It has, after all, health-promoting antioxidants.

a photo of a woman pouring a glass of red wine at home

Photo:Getty Images. EatingWell design.

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.

In fact, research has found that red wine may provide more benefits than white wine.

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Might Reduce Inflammation in Your Body

Red wine has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, says Gould.

For example, a 2024 narrative review found that drinking red wine might help prevent dementia.

Nutrition Facts

According to the USDA, one serving (5 fl oz.)

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It also has tannins, which could provide additional benefits, particularly for heart health.

What about if you prefer white wine over red wine?

Unfortunately, you wont get quite as many health-promoting antioxidants.

Drop It Wine Drops, 2 Pack – Natural Wine Sulfite Remover and Wine Tannin Remover

Research shows that even having just two drinks before bed candisrupt your sleep.

Specifically, the study found that drinking alcohol delayed and shortened REM sleep, one of the sleep phases.

It’s essential to consult with a health care professional about any potential interactions, advises Manaker.

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This includes oral, pharyngeal, laryngeal, esophageal, liver, colorectal and breast cancers.

Need Support?

Should You Be Drinking Wine for Better Health?

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Sure, drinking red wine could provide some health benefits.

The Bottom Line

Red wine is one of the most enjoyed alcoholic beverages around the world.

However, these potential benefits dont justify starting if you don’t drink wine.

a photo of different kinds of wines in glasses

However, the benefits dont outweigh the risks.

If you dont have contraindications due to health concerns, its OK to drink wine in moderation daily.

Two 5-ounce glasses of wine per day fall within the health guidelines for men.

a group at dinner cheering with glasses of red wine

However, women should limit their intake to one glass of wine per day.

2024;103(23):e38229.

2024;16(20):3431. doi:10.3390/nu16203431

USDA FoodData Central.Alcoholic beverage, wine, table, red.

two glasses of sparkling wine

USDA FoodData Central.Alcoholic beverage, wine, table, white.

doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2024.102030

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Harmful Interactions.

2023;389(26):2486-2494. doi:10.1056/NEJMsr2306723

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Alcohols Effects on Health.

wine being poured into two glasses

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About Moderate Alcohol Use.

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