Here's what your body really does if you drink a glass of wine every night

Whether it goes with a meal or a moment of downtime, the daily glass of wine has become a habit for many. But what does your body really make of it? Between promised benefits and unwanted effects, knowing how this steady habit affects you is essential. So, is this little ritual truly helpful—or misleading?

One of red wine’s best-known claims lies in its potential effects on cardiovascular health. Resveratrol, an antioxidant found notably in grapes, may play a protective role by reducing plaque buildup in blood vessels and promoting vasodilation. Some specialists even mention better blood pressure control, along with a lower risk of stroke and heart disease.

And that’s not all. Polyphenols, other compounds in wine, may help balance the gut microbiome, improving digestion. For instance, moderate intake has sometimes been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. And for the skeptics, some studies have noted associations between moderate consumption and better protection against certain eye diseases such as glaucoma or cataracts—even if those links should be interpreted with caution.

But it’s not all good news—far from it. If one glass seems harmless, two or three a day start to do harm. In excess, alcohol can lead to a gradual rise in blood pressure and, over time, seriously affect the liver. There’s also a higher risk of cancers (especially of the digestive tract), as well as mental health issues such as depression.

Not to mention less serious but common annoyances: headaches, sensitivities to sulfites, and accelerated skin aging. Did you know wine can also weaken your tooth enamel? These small inconveniences aren’t to be taken lightly.

The key lies in moderation. A little wisdom helps you avoid slipping from “a good glass” to “one too many.” The most common guidelines emphasize that one glass per day for women and two for men is the upper limit, to be adjusted according to age, health, and your eating habits.

A few practical tips to manage your intake? Build in alcohol-free days to give your body a break. Opt for quality wines, which are less likely to contain additives or excessive sulfites. Finally, always pair your wine with food to slow its rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

Wine can be an occasional ally to your well-being, as long as you make it a moderate, mindful companion. Asking about its impact on your body isn’t about fear—it’s an invitation to enjoy the good things with a bit more awareness, for lasting pleasure without the pitfalls.