As the weekend approaches, many people look forward to unwinding with a drink—be it a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a favorite cocktail. While moderate alcohol consumption is often associated with stress relief and social enjoyment, health experts advise a closer look at what’s in the glass.
According to registered dietitian Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT, neither beer nor wine holds a clear advantage across the board. “Neither is inherently better, but the context of consumption matters greatly,” she explains.
Health Benefits of Wine
Red wine, in particular, has long been spotlighted for its potential health benefits. Registered dietitian Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, notes that red wine is rich in polyphenols—powerful antioxidants that may support cardiovascular health, lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and reduce inflammation.
“Polyphenols in red wine help lower cholesterol by limiting how much the liver absorbs and preventing the breakdown of LDL cholesterol,” Brownstein says. Additionally, red wine contains resveratrol, a compound associated with reduced plaque buildup in arteries and possessing anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, according to Manaker.
Despite the promising data, Brownstein urges caution. “More research is needed to determine if the benefits of resveratrol truly outweigh the health risks of alcohol consumption,” she adds. Research has also suggested that the amount of resveratrol needed to achieve therapeutic effects cannot realistically be obtained through wine consumption alone.
Some of these cardiovascular benefits, experts say, can also be gained from grape juice, which offers antioxidants without the risks associated with alcohol.
While red wine may edge out white in terms of antioxidant content, white wine still contains compounds that may aid digestion and support immune health.
Health Benefits of Beer
Beer, particularly craft and darker varieties, also contains antioxidants and essential nutrients such as B vitamins. Manaker notes that while antioxidant levels in beer are generally lower than in red wine, moderate beer consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and improvements in metabolic health.
Recent studies have found that moderate beer drinkers report better self-perceived health, both mentally and physically, compared to non-drinkers or heavy drinkers. These findings also suggest a link between moderate beer intake and stronger social support systems.
Risks and Considerations
Despite potential benefits, both beer and wine carry health risks if consumed excessively. “Alcohol of any kind can negatively impact liver function, disrupt sleep, and raise the risk of chronic illnesses and addiction,” warns Manaker.
Caloric content is another concern. Beer typically contains more calories per serving than wine, primarily due to larger portion sizes and higher carbohydrate content. A standard 175 ml (6 oz) glass of 12% ABV wine contains around 133 calories, while a 16 oz pint of 5% ABV beer has approximately 239 calories. This makes beer roughly 50% more caloric per serving compared to wine. Light beer offers a lower-calorie alternative.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines moderate drinking as up to two alcoholic beverages per day for men and one for women.
“Sharing a glass of red wine with friends over a balanced meal can be part of a healthy lifestyle,” says Manaker. “But finishing a bottle alone while binge-watching television is a different story. Moderation and context are the keys.”
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between beer and wine for health reasons, the answer largely depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and medical history. Brownstein leans slightly in favor of red wine due to its polyphenol content, while Manaker emphasizes moderation above all else.
“Ultimately, enjoying either wine or beer is about finding what works for you and integrating it thoughtfully into a balanced lifestyle,” Manaker concludes.
Though the health benefits of alcohol may exist, they remain modest and do not necessarily outweigh the risks—particularly those related to cancer and chronic disease. The healthiest approach, experts agree, is mindful consumption within personal and medical boundaries.
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