Coffee, Alcohol, and Chocolate – A Health Perspective

The Society of Physicians hosted a symposium on pleasure foods and heart health at the Billrothhaus in Vienna. On March 23, 2022, renowned doctors presented scientific findings on the effects of coffee, chocolate, and alcohol consumption on cardiovascular health.
The key takeaway: Moderate consumption of these indulgences has predominantly positive effects. Compared to abstinent individuals, the risk of dying from a heart attack is reduced by 15 to 30%. Additionally, blood pressure is lowered, and the risk of stroke decreases.
While alcohol and caffeine play a role, the true stars are polyphenols. These compounds strengthen the immune system, have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, slow plaque formation in blood vessels, and inhibit the early stages of arterial calcification—a condition that can ultimately lead to heart attacks or strokes.
Polyphenols are found in red wine, coffee, and dark chocolate. In terms of consumption:
•    For red wine, moderate intake means two glasses of 125 ml per day.
•    For coffee, no strict limit applies.
•    For dark chocolate, a daily portion of 15 g is recommended due to its high calorie content.
W&G Wine & Health will continue reporting on further insights from the symposium.