Prof. D Nicolai Worm. Photp credit: Deutsche WeinakademieIn an insightful interview, nutritionist and Scientific Advisory Board member prof. and D Nicolai Worm talks about the complex relationship between wine consumption and cancer risk. Here a summary:
No lump sums
Instead of making blanket statements, he emphasizes that numerous factors such as drinking patterns, the type of drink consumed and the general lifestyle play a role. These factors must be taken into account when it comes to interrelationships between wine and cancer.
Many factors are influencing the risk of cancer
Worm explains that wine cannot generally be seen as a risk factor for cancer. Important influencing factors are the amount and frequency of consumption, but also the lifestyle of the individual. “It depends on how the wine is drunk,” says Worm. Regular but moderate consumption, as part of a healthy lifestyle, as is common in Mediterranean countries, is harmless. “Excessive alcohol consumption is rare there,” says Worm. In these regions, wine is often drunk with food, which may even offer health benefits.
However, it is undisputed that heavy and frequent alcohol consumption, on the other hand, will increase the risk of cancer, regardless of whether it is wine, beer or spirits. Worm emphasizes that a differentiated view is necessary to correctly classify the cancer risk from alcohol consumption.
Mediterranean nutrition and moderate wine consumption
Enjoy Mediterranean food with wine. Photo credit: anaumenko – Adobestock
Worm particularly emphasizes the moderate consumption of wine as part of the Mediterranean way of meals. This nutrition, rich in fresh vegetables, fish, olive oil and nuts, is characterized by a moderate consumption of wine.
Studies are showing that moderate consumption of wine in conjunction with a healthy diet, as is common in the Mediterranean regions, does not mean an increased risk of cancer. On the contrary, some studies are even observing a slightly reduced risk. The interaction of antioxidants from food and the moderate consumption of wine contributes to these positive effects.
Lifestyle is key: motion and weight
In addition to alcohol consumption, other factors play a major role in the risk of cancer. Worm emphasizes that cancer is a multifactorial disease. In addition to nutrition, factors such as physical activity and body weight have a significant influence. People who lead an active lifestyle and watch their weight often have a significantly lower risk of cancer, even if they consume wine.
“Studies are showing that people who move a lot and watch their weight are less likely to develop cancer, even if they drink wine in moderation,” explains Worm. Overweight and obesity, on the other hand, are recognized risk factors for many types of cancer. Unfortunately, this factor is often not sufficiently taken into account in many studies on the context between alcohol and cancer.
Conclusion: Moderation and balance
Worm makes it clear that blanket statements about wine and cancer are often misleading. A differentiated understanding of one’s own lifestyle and personal drinking habits is essential. Moderate wine consumption as part of a healthy nutrition and an active lifestyle does not pose an increased risk of cancer and could even bring health benefits.
Source: German Wine Academy. Created on 09.10.2024