Moderate wine consumption and prevention of coronary heart disease: The development of evidence

Moderate alcohol consumption and in particular wine consumption, is associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in epidemiological studies. Although no randomized placebo-controlled studies with wine intervention exist - and will probably never exist - the observed association can be interpreted as causal due to the existing high biological plausibility. There is more and more evidence that ethanol per se contributes to the most relevant preventive effects. When consumed in moderation the health benefits outweigh the health risks. Whether and to what extend the numerous plant compounds of wine (polyphenolic substances) can provide additional health benefits is still under investigation.