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Hearing that an alcoholic beverage—such as red wine—might have certain health benefits may be tempting.But, be careful! There is no such thing as “more wine, better health.” Let’s separate myths from facts to make the best decisions when it comes to this beverage.

Recently, several scientific studies have shown that moderate red wine drinking can bring some health benefits. Here are some explanations about how wine may be potentially beneficial against certain diseases:

Red wine and the heart

In the last decades, scientists have carefully studied certain contradictions: statistical data have shown that the French suffer a low incidence of heart disease, despite having a diet relatively high in saturated fats.This myst ery has been called “The French Paradox.” Strangely, this low risk of coronary heart disease has been attributed to red wine, which is a usual “guest” at the French table.

But, what makes red wine heart healthy? Polyphenols are substances that play a heart-protective role.

Red wine and lung cancer

The relationship between wine consumption—both red and white—and lung cancer was analyzed in a study published in 2004 by Santiago de Compostela University in Spain. The researchers concluded that red wine consumption has a low, but significant association with a decrease in lung cancer development. These results suggest an interesting cost-benefit relationship between red wine consumption and lung cancer risk.

Red wine and prostate cancer

According to a study by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, drinking one daily glass of red wine causes a 50% decrease in the risk of prostate cancer.However, other studies have shown confusing results. These studies have included other alcoholic beverages besides red wine. Therefore, more studies are needed to analyze the relationship between red wine and prostate cancer.

The key is moderation.

To make valid conclusions about the benefits of red wine consumption, we must first analyze costs versus benefits. To make this clearer, you should consider if you have any potential risk of alcohol dependence, as well as other health conditions such as being pregnant or having an underlying disease.

Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages add empty calories to your diet, so this can be troublesome if you are trying to lose weight.

Considering these aspects, the conclusion is that a moderate consumption of alcohol may be potentially healthy.

If you drink alcoholic beverages, the recommendation is: for men, no more than 2 drinks per day, and for women, no more than 1 drink daily.