Health Q&A: Wine and Diabetes Prevention

Jacob Gaffney
Posted: April 19, 2007

Q: What is known about wine and diabetes, particularly concerning prevention of the disease? --A. Schranz, Malta

A: People who consume moderate amounts of wine daily appear to be at an advantage when it comes to prevention of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that light to moderate drinkers, including both men and women , may have a substantially lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A Harvard School of Public Health study from 2003 found that women as young as 25 who consumed a glass or two of alcohol a day were at a 58 percent lower risk of developing diabetes than non-drinkers. Researchers speculate that alcohol consumption might help regulate insulin sensitivity and blood glucose levels.

Those diagnosed with diabetes may benefit from drinking wine as well. A 2004 review of literature on diabetes and wine consumption published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that the risk of coronary heart disease was up to 55 percent lower for diabetics who drank alcohol in moderation.

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