Is Prosecco Anti-Inflammatory?: Unpacking the Fizz, the Polyphenols, and the Facts

November 6, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a study conducted by the University of Reading, the polyphenols found in sparkling wine can help lower blood pressure and boost circulation, sparking interest in its potential health benefits. Given these findings, a common question arises: Is Prosecco anti-inflammatory or does the alcohol content counteract these positive effects?

Quick Summary

Prosecco contains polyphenols from Glera grapes that offer antioxidant properties. However, alcohol itself is pro-inflammatory, with excessive consumption triggering gut issues and oxidative stress. Any modest anti-inflammatory benefits are typically overshadowed by the negative health impacts of alcohol and added sugars.

Key Points

Polyphenols Present: Prosecco contains plant-based antioxidant polyphenols from Glera grapes that may offer some anti-inflammatory properties.
Alcohol's Inflammatory Impact: Excessive alcohol consumption drives systemic inflammation by increasing oxidative stress and gut permeability.
Benefits vs. Risks: Any modest anti-inflammatory benefits from Prosecco's polyphenols are typically outweighed by the pro-inflammatory effects of the alcohol and sugar, especially with heavier drinking.
Comparison to Red Wine: Red wine generally has higher levels of specific anti-inflammatory antioxidants, like resveratrol, than Prosecco.
Moderation is Essential: For any potential health upside, Prosecco must be consumed in strict moderation, ideally as one drink or less per day, according to health guidelines.
Sugar Content Matters: The amount of residual sugar in Prosecco, which varies by style, can contribute to inflammation and should be considered by those on an anti-inflammatory diet.
Dietary Focus: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats provides far more reliable and potent anti-inflammatory benefits than any alcoholic beverage.

The Role of Polyphenols in Prosecco

Prosecco is made primarily from Glera grapes, and like other plant-based foods, these grapes contain naturally occurring compounds called polyphenols. Polyphenols are a type of antioxidant that helps the body combat oxidative stress, a process that can contribute to inflammation. Studies have shown that polyphenols from grapes can have cardiovascular benefits, such as improving circulation and reducing blood pressure.

The anti-inflammatory mechanism of polyphenols is multifaceted. They can help reduce the production of inflammatory mediators, suppress the activity of enzymes involved in inflammatory processes, and regulate intracellular signaling pathways. While Prosecco does contain these beneficial compounds, it is important to remember that the concentration and type of polyphenols can vary greatly depending on the grape variety and winemaking process. For example, the deeper red color of red wine is a result of prolonged contact with the grape skins, which are rich in polyphenols like resveratrol.

The Pro-Inflammatory Effect of Alcohol

While the grapes in Prosecco offer potential benefits, the alcohol itself presents a significant counterpoint. Heavy or excessive alcohol consumption is a well-documented cause of systemic inflammation. The body metabolizes alcohol into a toxic compound called acetaldehyde, which triggers oxidative stress and cellular damage. This inflammation can affect multiple organs, including the liver, brain, and gut.

One of the most concerning aspects of alcohol-induced inflammation is its effect on gut permeability, often referred to as 'leaky gut'. Alcohol can damage the intestinal lining, allowing bacterial toxins like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to enter the bloodstream. This triggers a widespread inflammatory response throughout the body, ultimately promoting chronic health conditions. For this reason, relying on Prosecco or any alcoholic beverage for anti-inflammatory benefits is misguided, as the negative impacts of alcohol can easily outweigh the positive contributions from polyphenols, particularly with heavy or chronic consumption.

Comparing Prosecco to Other Beverages

To fully understand Prosecco's place in a healthy diet, it's helpful to compare its components and effects with other common beverages. This comparison highlights the trade-offs involved when considering Prosecco for its potential health effects.


Feature	Prosecco (Brut)	Red Wine	Water
Polyphenols/Antioxidants	Present (from Glera grapes)	High (especially resveratrol)	None
Anti-Inflammatory Effect	Minimal, potentially overshadowed by alcohol/sugar	Modest (in strict moderation)	High (hydration supports bodily functions)
Alcohol's Inflammatory Effect	Present	Present	None
Sugar Content (Residual)	0–12 g/L (Brut), higher in sweeter styles	Varies, can be lower than many Proseccos	None
Overall Impact in Moderation	Neutral to negative, depending on overall diet and lifestyle	Slightly more beneficial due to higher antioxidant content, but still alcohol	The healthiest option for hydration and bodily function

The Moderation and Sugar Factor

For any health benefits to be considered, moderate consumption is a non-negotiable requirement. Most guidelines suggest no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. Any amount above this limit significantly increases the risk of alcohol-related inflammatory issues.

Furthermore, the sugar content in Prosecco is a crucial factor. Prosecco comes in different levels of sweetness, ranging from Brut Nature (lowest sugar) to Dry (highest sugar). High sugar intake is known to contribute to systemic inflammation, so even if the polyphenols offer a slight benefit, the added sugar could counteract it. For those concerned with inflammation, opting for the driest possible Prosecco variety and strictly limiting intake is the wisest course of action.

Effective Strategies for an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle

For genuine and sustained anti-inflammatory benefits, it is far more effective to focus on a wholesome, nutrient-dense diet rather than relying on an occasional glass of Prosecco. Here are some key dietary strategies to help manage inflammation:

Load up on omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as walnuts and flaxseed, omega-3s are powerful anti-inflammatory agents.
Increase intake of leafy greens and berries: Spinach, kale, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help reduce inflammation.
Embrace spices: Turmeric and ginger have been used for centuries for their potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration with water is essential for flushing out toxins and supporting overall cellular health.

Beyond diet, incorporating regular exercise, managing stress, and ensuring sufficient sleep are critical components of a holistic anti-inflammatory lifestyle. For comprehensive information on how alcohol impacts the body, particularly concerning inflammation, resources from the National Institutes of Health are highly recommended.

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Prosecco and Inflammation

In conclusion, while Prosecco does contain antioxidant polyphenols that could theoretically offer some anti-inflammatory effects, the reality is far more complex. The alcohol and residual sugar present in the beverage act as pro-inflammatory agents, especially when consumed in excess. Any minor benefits from the polyphenols are likely negated by the inflammatory cascade triggered by the alcohol itself. A healthy approach is to enjoy Prosecco responsibly as an occasional treat rather than a health beverage. For those truly aiming to reduce inflammation, focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, alongside a healthy lifestyle, is the most reliable and effective strategy. The science is clear: the best anti-inflammatory diet is not found in a bottle of bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

While Prosecco does contain some anti-inflammatory polyphenols, the alcohol and sugar can promote inflammation. It is best consumed in moderation, or avoided, if you are strictly following an anti-inflammatory diet to manage a health condition.

Prosecco contains polyphenols, but red wine, especially from red grapes, typically contains higher levels of antioxidants like resveratrol, which have been more extensively studied for their anti-inflammatory effects.

Moderate consumption is generally defined as one drink or less per day for women and up to two for men. This amount is less likely to trigger the negative inflammatory responses associated with heavier drinking, but potential benefits are not guaranteed.

Yes, Prosecco can contain significant amounts of sugar, especially sweeter varieties like 'Dry'. Excessive sugar intake can contribute to systemic inflammation and should be considered, particularly if managing a chronic inflammatory condition.

Excessive alcohol intake causes systemic inflammation by increasing gut permeability (leaky gut), promoting oxidative stress by generating free radicals, and activating the immune system's inflammatory response.

All alcoholic beverages, when consumed in excess, can be inflammatory. The specific effects depend on the alcohol and sugar content, as well as the presence of antioxidant compounds like polyphenols, which vary by wine type.

Some studies suggest moderate Prosecco consumption may support heart health through its antioxidant content, which can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in blood vessels. However, these effects are tied to moderate intake, and the overall health impact of alcohol is complex.

Prosecco Rosé contains a percentage of Pinot Noir grapes, which are rich in antioxidants like resveratrol. This might offer a slightly higher polyphenol content than white Prosecco, but the inflammatory effects of the alcohol itself still apply with heavy consumption.