Many people enjoy a glass of wine to relax after a long day. But is one type healthier—red or white?
For years, red wine has been seen as the better choice. It contains antioxidants, and some studies suggest it may help heart health and even lower cancer risk. But new research challenges this idea.
No Clear Winner: Red vs. White Wine
A recent study analyzed 42 previous studies involving nearly 96,000 people. The findings, published in Nutrients, showed that neither red nor white wine reduces cancer risk. In fact, all alcohol increases cancer risk.
Dr. Dale Shepard, a Cleveland Clinic oncologist, says this aligns with recent health warnings. “About 100,000 cancer cases are linked to alcohol,” he told Health. “Reducing alcohol is a key way to lower risk.”
Surprising Findings: White Wine Linked to Higher Risks
While no major difference was found between red and white wine overall, white wine showed two concerning trends:
- 22% higher risk of skin cancer
- 26% higher cancer risk in women
Why? Researchers aren’t sure. One theory is that heavy drinkers may engage in risky behaviors (like tanning or skipping sunscreen). But more studies are needed.
Why Alcohol Raises Cancer Risk
Alcohol harms the body in several ways:
Toxic Byproducts: When the liver breaks down alcohol, it releases acetaldehyde, which damages DNA.
Oxidative Stress: Alcohol causes cell damage, increasing cancer risk.
Hormonal Changes: Alcohol may raise estrogen levels, increasing breast cancer risk.
“Alcohol is the third leading cause of preventable cancer, after tobacco and obesity,” says Shepard. “And drinking + smoking makes carcinogens easier to absorb.”
The Bottom Line: Less Alcohol = Lower Risk
Red wine does contain resveratrol, an antioxidant linked to heart health. Some lab studies suggest it may slow cancer growth. But real-world data shows no major health advantage over white wine.
“The idea that red wine is ‘healthier’ is misleading,” says Shepard. “All alcohol carries risks.”
The best choice? Limit alcohol to reduce cancer risk. Always talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes for better health.
Key Takeaways
- No wine type reduces cancer risk—alcohol increases it.
- White wine linked to higher skin & breast cancer risks (but more research needed).
- Alcohol damages DNA, stresses cells, and disrupts hormones.
- Red wine’s “health benefits” don’t outweigh risks.
Final Advice: If you drink, do so in moderation—and never assume one type is “safer.” Your best bet? Cutting back.
Related topics:
- Looking For A Healthier Glass Of Wine? Try These Low-Sugar Choices
- U.S. Wine Sales Decline As Younger Consumers Embrace New Drinking Trends
- EU Experts Call For Shift Toward Low- And No-Alcohol Wines To Meet Consumer Demand
