Scientific studies corroborate the existence of the so-called “J Curve”, which establishes a relationship between moderate wine consumption and a decreased risk of mortality. This relationship suggests that those who enjoy wine in moderation have a longer life expectancy than those who abstain from or consume it in excess, a finding of considerable scientific importance.
This is one of the main conclusions conveyed today by Dr. Ramón Estruch, president of the Foundation for Wine and Nutrition Research (FIVIN), at the headquarters of the DOCa Rioja Regulatory Council. Estruch, one of the most respected figures in Mediterranean Diet research, has highlighted that “this discovery is fundamental, as it reinforces the idea that wine can be part of a healthy lifestyle, as long as it is consumed in moderation. Moderation is key and must be accompanied by a balanced diet and regular physical exercise.”
The purpose of today’s meeting was to offer a rigorous, balanced and science-based vision of the binomial wine and health, in a context marked by the rise of anti-alcohol campaigns and movements that, although they pursue a preventive objective, do not always distinguish between alcoholic beverages and their differentiated effects on health when consumed in moderation.
From FIVIN and the Regulatory Council of the DOCa Rioja remember that wine as a product is protected by Law 24/2003 on Vine and Wine, which considers wine as a natural food and must also encourage its promotion by the Administration, informing about the benefits of wine as a food within the Mediterranean diet within the framework of the European Union.
For this reason, the DOCa joins the widespread criticism in the sector for what they consider a “demonization” of wine, by including it in the same category as other alcoholic beverages. “As the first Denomination of Origin of wine in Spain, which accounts for more than 27% of the volume share of quality wine marketed in Spain, it seems tremendously unfair not only for us, but also for the consumer that inaccurate information is disseminated about the true implications of moderate wine consumption on health,” declared Fernando Ezquerro, president of the Regulatory Council of the DOCa Rioja.
The reaffirmation of these conclusions comes after the International Lifestyle, Diet, Wine and Health Congress, which brought together 30 international speakers from Europe, North America, South Africa and Australia. The event became a key platform to consolidate scientific evidence on the positive effects of moderate wine consumption, emphasizing the need for responsible and science-based communication around this topic, always in the context of a lifestyle. healthy.
Participating researchers and doctors highlighted the integral role of wine within the Mediterranean Diet, a dietary pattern acclaimed worldwide for its health benefits. It is estimated that wine contributes 20% to the overall benefits of this diet, which also includes nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish and olive oil. The studies presented show that moderate wine consumers have a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases and a reduction in mortality from various causes, including certain forms of cancer, compared to those who do not consume wine or consume it excessively. However, experts emphasize that moderation is essential to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with abusive consumption.
Scientific evidence and responsible communication
As Dr. Ramón Estruch has explained, FIVIN works with contrasted research reviewed by a scientific committee to guarantee that the information disseminated has a solid basis. This is key, especially in a context where health and well-being are priority issues for society.
In this sense, FIVIN coordinates the digital portal www.lacienciadelvino.com, which brings together the most recent scientific evidence on the relationship between wine and a healthy lifestyle. Currently, more than 800 scientific studies and 48 informative articles are compiled on the website that have previously been evaluated by the foundation’s scientific committee.
The analysis of these studies allows us to affirm that Spain is a leader in scientific research related to moderate wine consumption and a healthy lifestyle.
However, from FIVIN, they remember the health dangers of abusive consumption and its harmful effects on society. In this sense, FIVIN works to highlight the importance of moderation and prevention of abusive consumption, and they warn that any study on wine and health does not replace medical advice from a professional.