Are you a wine enthusiast who’s also concerned about your heart health?
Well, you’ll be happy to know that researchers have found a link between moderate wine consumption and a reduced risk of serious cardiovascular disease.
The Mediterranean Diet Connection
The study, published in the European Heart Journal, involved over 1,200 participants who were at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. These individuals followed a Mediterranean diet, which is high in olive oil, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, and low in sweet or processed foods and drinks.
A More Accurate Measure of Wine Consumption
Previous studies on the effects of wine on cardiovascular health have produced inconsistent results. This is because they often relied on people reporting their own wine consumption, which can be subjective. In this new study, researchers measured the amount of tartaric acid in participants’ urine to get an objective and reliable measure of wine consumption.
The Benefits of Light-to-Moderate Wine Consumption
The researchers found that drinking half to one glass of wine per day reduced the risk of developing a cardiovascular event by 50% in this high-risk group. Even light drinking (between one glass per week and less than half a glass per day) reduced cardiovascular risk by 38%. However, this protective effect disappears if you drink more than one glass per day.
The Importance of Moderation
Professor Ramon Estruch, who led the research, emphasized the importance of moderate wine consumption within a healthy dietary pattern. He noted that a reduction in risk of 50% is much higher than what can be achieved with some drugs, such as statins.
Who Can Benefit from Moderate Wine Consumption?
The study’s findings may not apply to other populations, and the researchers emphasize that moderate wine consumption should be considered in the context of age and gender. They suggest that the protective effects of wine consumption are observed from the age of 35 to 40, and that women should always consume half the amount of wine as men.
The Experts Weigh In
In an accompanying editorial, Professor Giovanni de Gaetano and colleagues praised the study’s approach, saying it sheds new light on the complex relationship between wine consumption and cardiovascular health. They noted that the study provides compelling evidence for the association between moderate wine consumption and lower cardiovascular risk.
The Takeaway
So, if you’re 35 or older, at high risk of cardiovascular disease, and following a Mediterranean diet, moderate wine consumption may be good for your heart. Just remember to keep it moderate – half to one glass per day – and enjoy it with meals. Cheers to that!