Wine, Polyphenols, and Mediterranean Diets. What Else Is There to Say?

Abstract

A considerable amount of literature has been published claiming the cardiovascular benefits of moderate (red) wine drinking, which has been considered a distinguishing trait of the Mediterranean diet. Indeed, red wine contains relevant amounts of polyphenols, for which evidence of their biological activity and positive health effects are abundant; however, it is also well-known that alcohol, even at a low level of intake, may have severe consequences for health. Among others, it is directly related to a number of non-communicable diseases, like liver cirrhosis or diverse types of cancer. The IARC classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, causally associated with the development of cancers of the upper digestive tract and liver, and, with sufficient evidence, can be positively associated with colorectum and female breast cancer. In these circumstances, it is tricky, if not irresponsible, to spread any message on the benefits of moderate wine drinking, about which no actual consensus exists. It should be further considered that other hallmarks of the Mediterranean diet are the richness in virgin olive oil, fruits, grains, and vegetables, which are also good sources of polyphenols and other phytochemicals, and lack the risks of wine. All of these aspects are reviewed in this article.

The Mediterranean Diet: An Update of the Clinical Trials

“…The MedDiet’s health power lies on the foods’ heterogeneity, allowing the proper intake of key molecules, such as long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber, antioxidant vitamins, carotenoids, and polyphenols. Of note, this is associated with beneficial effects on endothelial and cardiovascular function [ 81 ]. Estruch et al showed in prospective randomized controlled clinical trial enrolling high-risk patients for CVDs the decreased incidence of cardiovascular events in patients assigned to a Mediterranean Diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts when compared with those assigned to a reduced-fat diet [ 82 ].…”

Rosmarinic Acid Reduces Microglia Senescence: A Novel Therapeutic Approach for the Management of Neuropathic Pain Symptoms

“…RA is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenol derived from many plants including M. officinalis . Polyphenols are characterized by numerous beneficial effects on the body, and RA, with its numerous properties, makes no exception, especially as a strong anti-inflammatory [ 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 ]. Indeed, RA was reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects against neuroinflammation in microglia cells [ 38 ].…”

Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells Using Naturally Occurring Phytoestrogens

“…The Mediterranean diet, which includes significant plant polyphenols and wine consumption, has been associated with lower incidence of breast cancer [ 174 , 175 , 176 , 177 , 178 ]. Resveratrol has been identified as one of the protective bioactive molecules in this diet [ 179 ]. Additionally, resveratrol is thought to be the ingredient in wine responsible for the “French Paradox” effect, in which moderate wine consumption in French people is associated with low incidence of heart disease despite their high-fat diet [ 90 , 160 , 180 , 181 ].…”