A new scientific study published this week in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology offers reassuring news for moderate wine drinkers: enjoying wine—especially sparkling and white varieties—may help reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
This insight comes from an extensive analysis by researchers at the School of Public Health, Fudan University in Shanghai, using data from the UK Biobank, one of the world’s most robust long-term health studies.
The UK Biobank project tracks the health of over 500,000 British volunteers aged 40 to 69 across three decades, providing a treasure trove of data for researchers exploring preventable health risks. This particular study examined 125 lifestyle behaviors to determine which had the most significant impact on reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death.
A Glass of Prevention: Wine’s Role in Heart Health
Among the top four behaviors found to improve heart health were:
- Increasing lung capacity
- Reducing waist circumference
- Drinking more sparkling or white wine
- Drinking moderate amounts of red wine
While wine wasn’t the central focus of the study, its positive correlation with reduced heart attack risk stood out. Moderate wine consumption—defined as up to two drinks per day for men and one for women—was linked to better cardiovascular outcomes. Notably, beer and cider offered some benefit as well, though to a lesser extent.
This finding aligns with the well-established “U-shaped curve” theory of alcohol and heart health: both abstainers and heavy drinkers tend to face higher risks, while moderate drinkers experience a protective effect, particularly against heart disease—the leading cause of death in the U.S.
A Welcome Nuance in the Alcohol Debate
The results come at a pivotal moment for the wine industry, which has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years. Public health narratives have largely focused on the risks of alcohol, including its association with certain cancers. However, this study introduces a more nuanced perspective: when consumed in moderation and as part of a healthy lifestyle, wine may offer measurable cardiovascular benefits.
Industry figures like Tom Wark, executive director of the National Association of Wine Retailers, have welcomed the findings. Wark emphasized the importance of balanced reporting to help consumers understand that alcohol is neither universally harmful nor a miracle cure—it’s about how and how much we drink.
Wine vs. Other Lifestyle Changes
The study also compared wine consumption to other behavioral changes. Surprisingly, increasing moderate wine intake ranked higher in heart-health benefit than improving sleep. Other impactful habits included reducing TV time and achieving a healthier body mass index. These comparisons help illustrate how wine—often perceived solely as a luxury indulgence—can also be part of a holistic approach to wellness.
Moderation Remains Key
Despite the promising results, researchers stressed that moderation is critical. Excessive drinking remains dangerous and can offset any potential benefits. Moreover, individual responses to alcohol vary, and no lifestyle advice should override medical guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts: Wine’s Place in a Healthy Lifestyle
This latest research adds to a growing body of evidence that suggests wine, when consumed thoughtfully and moderately, can be a heart-healthy pleasure. Combined with physical activity, a balanced diet, and healthy sleep, the occasional glass of sparkling, white, or red wine may support cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
As large-scale health datasets like the UK Biobank continue to offer new insights, public understanding of how everyday choices affect long-term health will only deepen. For now, those who choose to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner can take comfort in the idea that their habit—when practiced in moderation—might just be doing their heart a favor.
Source: Vinetur