Red wine: Benefits and risks

Medieval monasteries believed that their monks lived longer partly because of their regular, moderate drinking of wine.In recent years, science has indicated that there could be truth in these claims.According to a 2018 study, although notably there are no official recommendations around these benefits, drinking red wine in moderation has positive links with:Red wine may get its health benefits from its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulating effects.Red wine — made from crushed dark grapes — is a relatively rich source of resveratrol, a natural antioxidant in the skin of grapes. Whole grapes and berries are better sources of resveratrol than red wine, and because of the health risks linked with drinking alcohol, getting antioxidants from foods is likely to be more healthful than drinking wine.People may need to drink a lot of red wine to get enough resveratrol to have an effect, which could do more harm than good. However, these studies show the effects of resveratrol rather than red wine itself.Resveratrol may also help prevent vision loss by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, according to 2016 research.Many forms of age-related eye conditions that cause vision loss involve these factors, including:Some research says that drinking red wine in moderation could reduce the risk of certain cancers.However, the National Cancer Institute say there is strong evidence that drinking alcohol can cause certain cancers, especially drinking heavily over time. For most people, enjoying red wine in moderation is safe, but it is important to keep in mind that drinking alcohol in excess is harmful.Some studies, however, link moderate red wine intake with reduced risk or better outcomes in cancer. Most of the resveratrol in grapes is in the seeds and skin.Nonalcoholic red wines may also include resveratrol.Wine consumption may have some health benefits, but drinking too much of any type of alcohol can increase health risks.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide guidance on the health risks of drinking too much alcohol.