Is drinking red wine beneficial to health for older adults?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, whether drinking red wine is beneficial for older adults depends on individual health conditions. Red wine should be purchased from正规 channels, consumed within 3 days after opening, and should not be drunk on an empty stomach. It is not recommended to drink red wine within one hour before bedtime, to avoid affecting sleep quality or increasing the risk of nocturia.
Generally, whether drinking red wine is beneficial for older adults depends on individual health conditions. The details are as follows:
For elderly individuals who are in good health and have no underlying medical conditions, occasional and moderate consumption of red wine may offer certain benefits. The polyphenols in red wine can help relax blood vessels and improve circulation. Drinking about 50 ml with dinner may also stimulate appetite and promote better sleep, provided that consumption is limited to 1–2 times per week and the wine chosen is a dry or semi-dry variety with an alcohol content below 12%.
However, older adults with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or liver disease, as well as those with a history of alcohol dependence or sensitive gastrointestinal systems, should avoid drinking red wine. Alcohol can cause blood pressure fluctuations, increase metabolic strain on the liver and kidneys, and potentially interact with medications, leading to symptoms like dizziness and nausea. In severe cases, it may even trigger cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events. These individuals should strictly avoid all alcoholic beverages.
Red wine should be purchased from reputable sources and consumed within three days after opening. It should not be consumed on an empty stomach, and drinking within one hour before bedtime is not recommended, as it may impair sleep quality or increase the frequency of nighttime urination.
