The case for moderate wine consumption

In the heart of Europe, a debate as old as the vineyards themselves continues to ferment, stirring the pot of scientific inquiry and cultural tradition. It's about wine—venerated by many, vilified by some. This age-old discussion finds new vigor amid shifting health trends and economic tides, particularly impacting nations like Italy and France, where wine is not just a beverage but a cornerstone of culture, economy, and identity.

The European Union stands as the world's largest wine producer, yet it's here, within its borders, that wine's health implications spark heated debates. Despite accusations of its detrimental health effects, regardless of consumption levels, the question arises: Does science support such claims?

This query was front and center at the "Moderate Wine Consumption & Mediterranean Diet" conference in Brussels, attended by international experts. Among them was Attilio Giacosa, a gastroenterology professor and member of the Scientific Committee of Irvas, the Institute for Research on Wine, Nutrition, and Health. The consensus? Wine, as an alcoholic beverage, should indeed be consumed moderately and responsibly—two glasses per day for men and one for women, with meals, as recommended by Irvas.

Drawing on Italian and international epidemiological studies, Giacosa highlighted that regular, moderate wine consumption throughout adulthood, combined with a healthy diet, is not harmful. He pointed to the "J Curve" concept in science, which shows that moderate wine drinking can reduce mortality compared to abstention, while excessive consumption drastically increases it. This pattern is observed not just in mortality rates but also in cardiovascular diseases and cognitive disorders.

However, the validity of the J Curve has been contested. In 2018, The Lancet published a study by the Global Burden of Diseases group, claiming no level of alcohol consumption could lower disease risk, suggesting a zero-tolerance approach. Yet, by July 2022, The Lancet presented new findings from the same group, demonstrating that for adults over 40, the relationship between moderate alcohol intake and disease risk is not linear but follows a J Curve. This revised stance confirms the benefits of moderate alcohol consumption, challenging the World Health Organization's 2018 position that "no level of alcohol is safe."

Despite ongoing debates, the benefits of moderate wine consumption—longevity, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cognitive decline—are increasingly recognized. However, this doesn't mean non-drinkers should start consuming alcohol for health benefits. Instead, the evidence suggests that those who enjoy wine in moderation need not cease their habit for health's sake.

The conference also shined a light on wine's broader significance. Lamberto Frescobaldi, president of the Italian Wine Union and leader of the prominent Frescobaldi wine group, emphasized wine as an ambassador of European heritage, biodiversity, landscape conservation, tradition, and economic vitality. With wine consumption in the EU declining since 2008, stakeholders are keen on promoting responsible drinking while advocating for legislative attention to product transparency and protection.

As the debate continues, what remains clear is the call for a balanced approach to wine consumption, grounded in quality and sustainability. Wine, it seems, will continue to pour forth discussions on health, culture, and economics, embodying the complexity of human societies and the endless quest for understanding.