Whether you’re looking for something to help you unwind after a long day or simply want something tasty to pair with your meal, both beer and wine are standard go-tos. From football watch parties to girls’ nights out, these alcoholic bevvies are two of the most popular choices around. But before you decide whether you grab a six-pack or pick up a bottle, you might be wondering which one is actually better for you.

Wine, especially red wine, is often praised for its resveratrol content, an antioxidant linked to a range of potential health benefits. But is that enough to outweigh the broader downsides of alcohol? And what about beer? Does a hops-heavy happy hour bring anything notable to the table from a health standpoint?

We had experts weigh in to find out once and for all which drink is the better option.

Health benefits of wine

When comparing the two beverages, experts often highlight wine for its purported health benefits. Registered dietitian Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, notes that red wine in particular is loaded with polyphenols—antioxidants that may help protect the heart, lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol, and reduce inflammation. For example, studies show that moderate red wine consumption can lower LDL cholesterol, which is linked to a lower risk of arterial clogging and heart disease. 'Polyphenols in red wine help lower cholesterol by limiting how much the liver absorbs and preventing the breakdown of LDL cholesterol,' Brownstein explains.

Additionally, red wine 'has been lauded for its antioxidants like resveratrol, which may support heart health,' says registered dietitian Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT.. Resveratrol has been known to prevent plaque buildup on artery walls and has both anti-inflammatory and anti-aging potential.

'However,' cautions Brownstein, 'despite promising research on resveratrol's health benefits, additional studies are needed to shape clinical guidance and recommendations. Moreover, it remains unclear if the resveratrol's benefits outweigh alcohol's negative health effects.' In fact, one study even concluded that it's not actually possible to absorb the recommended therapeutic dose of resveratrol solely by drinking wine, anyway – talk about a buzz kill!

What's more, Manaker tells us that some of the health benefits associated with red wine can also be found in grape juice, particularly when it comes to heart health. Not an equal swap if you ask me.

While some experts claim that red wine has a slight edge in health benefits when compared to white varietals, the differences are pretty negligible. White wine has fewer antioxidants and polyphenols, but still enough to aid digestion and support the immune system.

Health benefits of beer

For beer drinkers, you'll be happy to discover that a number of brews contain certain B vitamins, which are an essential component of any diet. 'Some types of beer,' explains Manaker, 'especially craft and darker varieties, also contain antioxidants, though typically in smaller amounts than red wine.' Additionally, recent studies have shown that moderate beer consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease and overall mortality, not to mention the beverage’s other metabolic health benefits. That beer after work suddenly isn't looking too bad.

Downfalls of beer & wine

While both beer and wine have their own purported health benefits, like anything, they should only be consumed in moderation. 'Alcohol of any kind can negatively impact liver health, disrupt sleep, and increase your risk of chronic conditions and addiction when consumed in excess,' says Manaker.

She also points out another health consideration: 'These beverages come with calories, which can add up quickly – especially with beer, which is often consumed in larger quantities.' Generally, beer contains more calories per serving than wine, mainly due to its larger serving size and higher carbohydrate content.

For example, a standard 6-ounce glass of 12% ABV wine has around 133 calories, while a pint (16-ounce) of 5% ABV beer contains about 239 calories – making 'a beer' roughly 50% higher in calories per typical serving than 'a glass' of wine. (A serving of red wine is smaller than a serving of beer because it typically has a higher alcohol content, so it’s important to keep portion sizes in mind.) If you’re watching your calorie intake, light beers are a lower-calorie option, often containing fewer calories than both regular beer and wine.

Ultimately, both beer and wine are alcoholic beverages, which come with serious health concerns. 'While sharing a glass of red wine with friends during a wholesome meal that includes fish, vegetables, and whole grains can absolutely be part of a healthy lifestyle for most, polishing off an entire bottle alone on the couch while binge-watching Love Island reruns is a different story,' Manaker colourfully notes. 'Ultimately, the healthiest choice is to drink mindfully, within your personal limits, and as part of an overall balanced diet. Moderation and context are the keys!'

According to the CDC, 'moderate' drinking is considered two drinks or less per day for men and one drink or less per day for women.

The bottom line

When it comes down to it, which drink is actually better for your health? Manaker says it depends not only on your personal preferences, but also on your overall lifestyle. 'Both have potential health benefits in moderation, but it’s important first to emphasise the key word: moderation,' she says. Brownstein has a more definitive answer: 'Red wine would be considered healthier than beer due to its polyphenol content.'

Brownstein shares that one study found that those who moderately drink beer reported better self-perceived health, including better mental health, physical health, and social support, compared to people who did not drink, as well as former drinkers and those who consume high amounts of alcohol. However, she recommends weighing your decision about whether to drink with your GP, taking into account your lifestyle, medical history, and health goals.

Sadly, for those of us who love an end-of-day drink, the health benefits of wine and beer are modest at best, and don't seem to outweigh the cancer risks and other associated negatives of drinking. When it comes to beer versus wine, there's no hard and fast 'better' option.

'Ultimately, enjoying either wine or beer is all about finding what works for you and pairing it with a healthy lifestyle,' states Manaker. 'Both can bring enjoyment, whether during a meal or a social gathering, as long as they’re consumed thoughtfully.'

From: Delish US