Contrary to popular belief, evidence that wine can improve cardiovascular health is weak.

While multiple research mention antioxidants in red wine, the notion that wine is inherently ‘healthy’ may stem from the French paradox. The French paradox emerged in the 1980s and observed the low rates of heart disease in French people, despite a typical diet that includes fatty foods.

Red wine was then credited for cardiovascular health with emphasis placed on the resveratrol compound. Resveratrol is a dominant antioxidant that can lower cholesterol and blood pressure and helps heart inflammation.

On the contrary, there are other factors which may explain the paradox. For example, compared to Americans, French people consume more fruits and vegetables and fewer sweetened drinks. They also practice better portion control.

A popular 2019 study affiliated with the University of Naples found that compounds in red wine have various health benefits. Alcohol in red wine can boost “good” cholesterol (HDL-C), while polyphenols (plant compounds) might help with type 2 diabetes and prevent harmful cholesterol oxidation. However, more research is needed to fully understand these effects on the human body.

Another study done in 2009 acknowledges evidence linking certain dietary factors and patterns to coronary heart disease (CHD), but the findings are inconsistent. Research, including cohort studies and randomised controlled trials (RCTs), has produced mixed results, sometimes showing conflicting effects.

The takeaway? To maximize the benefits of resveratrol it is recommended to take them as supplements rather than drinking wine. To even get 1 gram of resveratrol for the health benefits, one person would have to consume an estimated 500 to 2,700 litres of red wine, 800 kilograms of red grapes, or 2,900 kilograms of dark chocolate. This is not a feasible solution if you are concerned about heart health.

Furthermore, any potential benefits of drinking wine may not be the same for everyone. Factors like genetics, overall health, lifestyle, and how one metabolises alcohol can influence the potency of benefits from moderate wine consumption.