For years, the idea that a daily glass of wine could be a tonic for the heart has been a persistent piece of health folklore. But what does the science actually say? According to a leading London cardiologist, the reality is far more nuanced, and the potential risks significantly outweigh any minor benefits.
The Complex Relationship Between Wine and Your Heart
Dr Oliver Guttmann, a consultant cardiologist at The Wellington Hospital in London, states that while some studies indicate a potential link, people should not think that drinking wine is good for you. The research he references suggests that moderate consumption might offer small advantages for cardiac health.
These possible benefits are attributed to compounds in wine that have vasorelaxant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help keep blood vessels open and flexible. This may assist in reducing 'bad' cholesterol, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. Red wine, in particular, contains antioxidants like resveratrol—found in grape skins—which may offer further support.
The Significant Caveats and Major Health Risks
However, Dr Guttmann and global health bodies issue major warnings. Alcohol consumption is conclusively linked to high blood pressure, liver disease, digestive issues, mental health problems, a weakened immune system, and several types of cancer.
In a stark 2023 statement, the World Health Organisation reported that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for your health. It classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, the same category as asbestos and tobacco, meaning the purported heart benefits are vastly outweighed by its cancer-causing potential.
Critically, Dr Guttmann points out that you can obtain similar beneficial compounds without any of the dangers by consuming the source material: foods like berries and grapes offer comparable advantages to wine but without the negative effects of alcohol.
Expert Recommendations on Sensible Consumption
Given that expecting all current drinkers to stop is unrealistic, Dr Guttmann emphasises that moderation is absolutely key. He strongly advises against non-drinkers starting for perceived health gains.
His personal guidance is to consume no more than 20 small glasses of wine per month. This aligns with broader UK health advice; the British Heart Foundation recommends not exceeding 14 units of alcohol weekly, which is roughly equivalent to six medium glasses of wine.
He also highlights that alcohol, especially beer and spirits, is often high in sugar and calories and can cause liver damage. His final, crucial message is a clear rebuttal to a common misconception: "Wine isn't medicine," he states. "I don't want people thinking they can eat badly and balance it out with a glass of wine."
