Researchers at the University of Barcelona in Spain have found that drinking wine in moderation, particularly varieties rich in polyphenols, can meaningfully lower inflammation in the body. This anti-inflammatory effect is linked to a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The findings were reported in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging (JNHA).
The study enrolled 217 participants, with an average age near 69 years; just over half of the group were women. Researchers tracked participants’ regular physical activity and diet before asking them to provide blood and urine samples. These samples were analyzed to measure tartaric acid concentrations and a panel of inflammatory markers present in the body. Tartaric acid excreted in urine was used as a practical, objective proxy for wine intake.
After about a year, the researchers repeated the testing and examined any shifts in participants’ diets. This longitudinal approach helped isolate how changes in wine consumption could influence inflammatory processes over time.
As expected, higher wine intake correlated with higher urinary tartaric acid levels. More importantly, those same participants showed a notable reduction in circulating soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and other markers that indicate inflammation. Lower inflammation is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular problems, suggesting a protective effect from moderate wine consumption.
The researchers highlighted that the most favorable outcomes occurred with moderate consumption of wines rich in polyphenols, especially red wines. Polyphenols are plant-derived compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help shield cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, contributing to healthier blood vessels and improved vascular function. The study adds to a growing body of evidence that dietary choices can modulate inflammatory pathways and cardiovascular risk.
It is important to interpret these results within the broader context of lifestyle. The benefits cited are linked to moderate, not heavy, wine intake and should be considered alongside other heart-healthy habits such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking. While the data point toward potential advantages of polyphenol-rich wine, individuals should consult healthcare providers to tailor recommendations to their personal health profile and risk factors.
In this evolving area of nutrition science, the Barcelona study reinforces the idea that the foods and drinks people choose can influence systemic inflammation. By focusing on moderate consumption of polyphenol-rich wines, there is potential to support cardiovascular health as part of a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to wellness.