Introduction: Spain stands among the leading countries in alcohol consumption, with an average of 11 liters per person daily. This significant figure prompts reflection on the normalization of alcohol consumption in the country. Many individuals argue that having a glass of wine with meals is beneficial for health, but the reality is that there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
While wine does contain ingredients with potentially beneficial properties, such as antioxidants, the associated risks of alcohol consumption cannot be overlooked.
Is Red Wine Consumption Beneficial? The health benefits of red wine have been explored, particularly due to antioxidants like polyphenols and resveratrol. These compounds may offer advantages, such as improving cardiovascular health and combating oxidative stress. However, recent research, including a comprehensive study in JAMA Network Open, has questioned the belief that moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial.
In reality, the risks linked to alcohol consumption, including an increased risk of certain cancers and liver diseases, might outweigh these potential benefits. Therefore, it is crucial to consider these risks and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating red wine into a health regimen.
Health Effects of Consuming a Glass of Wine Every Day: A 2022 report from the European Commission categorizes all alcoholic beverages, including wine, as high-risk products for certain cancers, such as those of the lower intestinal tract and larynx. Additionally, the World Heart Federation, in a 2022 report, states that there is no scientific evidence supporting the idea that alcohol consumption, even in small amounts, is beneficial for cardiovascular health. This report also indicates that alcohol has played a notable role in the rise of cardiovascular diseases in recent decades.
Furthermore, endocrinology and nutrition specialists, like Miguel Civera Andrés from the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN), argue that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption. Even small amounts can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, liver and pancreatic diseases, as well as dementia and metabolic disorders.
On the other hand, while red wine contains beneficial polyphenols, these nutrients can be obtained from healthier, non-alcoholic sources, such as consuming grapes directly. This approach avoids the harmful effects of alcohol while retaining the benefits of antioxidants.
What Constitutes Moderate Alcohol Consumption? When discussing alcohol consumption, Spanish health authorities differentiate between men and women due to their physiological differences. For women, it is advised not to exceed one unit of alcohol per day, equivalent to a glass of wine, meaning they should not surpass seven glasses weekly. Men, on the other hand, can double their intake, amounting to 14 glasses per week (two glasses per day).
However, some argue that these recommendations are outdated and counterproductive for health. It might be a matter of time before Spain begins to revise these quantities, following the path set by other countries like Canada.
Nevertheless, it is essential to be aware that studies on alcohol quantities and their effects on health have relied on observational research. Cohort, double-blind, and randomized studies on occasional consumption are required to draw definitive conclusions.
What is clear is that Spain has an issue with excessive alcohol consumption, with up to 20% of the country’s population exceeding recommended alcohol amounts. A significant statistic is that regular alcohol consumption is directly responsible for 4% of deaths in Spain. Additionally, it plays a role as an indirect factor in suicides, strokes, non-consensual sexual relations, traffic accidents, and various other risk behaviors.
