Wine consumption in relation to vascular risk

An inverse association between moderate alcohol consumption and vascular disease has been shown in several studies and confirmed in recent meta-analyses. Important issues remain about the relationship between alcoholic beverages and vascular disease. Among these are the differences in types of beverages, the optimal amount of alcoholic beverage intake, the individual or environmental modulation of the alcohol-related effect, and the pattern of drinking. In particular, many studies have dealt with the question of whether wine might offer a greater protection, most likely related to its nonalcoholic components. This review discusses open questions about wine and vascular disease.