Can a Glass of Wine Be Good for Your Heart?

For years, we’ve heard that moderate drinking, especially a glass of red wine, might be good for your heart. But is that really true? A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine took a closer look at alcohol’s relationship with heart health, and the results have been making waves. Thankfully, the team at the International Scientific Forum on Alcohol Research (ISFAR) has done what they do best: broken it all down in an accessible, science-backed way.

Let’s unpack what the study found, what it means, and why the story isn’t as simple as “drink or don’t drink.”

The Study: A Global Snapshot

The research, part of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study, looked at over 12 million person-years of data from 21 countries across the globe. The goal? To find out how alcohol consumption affects cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related issues.

People were grouped based on how much alcohol they drank, ranging from non-drinkers to heavy drinkers. The researchers tracked their health over time to see how likely they were to develop cardiovascular disease or die from it.

One major plus: the study had huge geographic and cultural diversity, which helps us understand drinking habits and their health effects in very different populations; from city dwellers in Europe to rural villagers in Asia.

Key Findings: A Mixed Picture

So, what did they find?

1. Light to moderate drinkers seemed to do better than non-drinkers. People who had up to about two standard drinks a day had a lower risk of certain cardiovascular diseases, especially heart attacks.

2. Heavy drinkers had worse outcomes. No surprises here—those who drank heavily were more likely to suffer strokes, heart failure, and other health problems.

3. Type of alcohol didn’t seem to matter much. Whether people drank beer, wine, or spirits, the results were similar, though wine drinkers often had healthier lifestyles overall.

4. Benefits were strongest in high-income countries. In wealthier nations, moderate drinkers had the most noticeable health advantages. This might be because of better healthcare, diet, or drinking patterns (like drinking with meals).

What ISFAR Experts Had to Say

The ISFAR team was impressed with the size and scope of the study, but they also had some important points to add:

• It's not just about the alcohol. People who drink moderately often have other healthy habits, they eat well, exercise, and have strong social connections. These factors could explain part of the benefit.

• The “non-drinker” group might include former drinkers. Some people who no longer drink do so because of health issues. If they’re grouped in with lifelong abstainers, it can make moderate drinkers look healthier by comparison.

• Not all drinking is equal. Drinking patterns matter. Binge drinking, even if it’s occasional, is harmful. On the flip side, a small glass of wine with dinner might have different effects than several beers on a Friday night.

• Cultural context is key. In some countries, moderate drinking is part of a balanced lifestyle. In others, alcohol use is more problematic or tied to different health risks.

So… Should You Pour a Glass?

If you already enjoy a drink with dinner, this study might feel like good news. But ISFAR reminds us that drinking for health isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation. For some people—especially those with a history of addiction or certain medical conditions, avoiding alcohol is still the healthiest choice.

For those who do drink, the key takeaway is moderation. That usually means:

• Up to one drink per day for women
• Up to two drinks per day for men

And it’s not just how much, but how you drink that matters: sipping a glass of wine with a meal is very different from weekend partying.

The Bottom Line

This new research reinforces what many experts have been saying for a while: moderate alcohol consumption might have some heart benefits, especially when part of a healthy lifestyle. But it’s not a reason to start drinking if you don’t already.

Alcohol’s impact on health is complex and deeply personal. Genetics, culture, diet, and lifestyle all play a role. And while science can guide us, individual choices—and conversations with your doctor—matter most.

At the end of the day, the best “prescription” for heart health is still the classic combo: a balanced diet, regular exercise, good sleep, and meaningful connections. And maybe—just maybe—a glass of red with dinner.

I summarised this report from the Alcohol Research Forum: Critique 289 – Alcohol and Cardiovascular Health.

Ricardo Pavoncello is an experienced article writer and recognised wine, beer, and spirits expert. With a deep understanding of the complexities of alcoholic beverages, Ricardo has spent years exploring and writing about the latest trends, industry developments, and the art of tasting. His work is well-regarded for its insightful analysis, expert recommendations, and ability to make complex topics accessible to enthusiasts and professionals. Whether delving into the history of a particular spirit or reviewing the latest craft beer, Ricardo brings passion and expertise to every article he writes.