A large-scale Spanish study is looking for volunteers for free wine

Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will consume moderate amounts of alcohol daily during the study period – less than seven drinks per week for women and up to 14 drinks per week for men – while the other group will abstain from alcohol completely. The allocation is random and neither group will know in advance which group they will be placed in. Members of both groups will undergo a comprehensive health assessment at the beginning and end of the program, attend quarterly consultations and work with health professionals.

The research aims to scientifically clarify current, often contradictory recommendations. While most health experts believe abstinence is the safest choice, several observational studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption, especially in people over 50, may be associated with lower mortality rates and better health outcomes than those who avoid alcohol altogether.

Both groups will receive gifts for their participation: abstainers will receive non-alcoholic beer and extra virgin olive oil, while moderate drinkers will receive 1.5 liters of red wine per month, also supplemented with olive oil, to help them follow the Mediterranean diet. It is important to maintain the independence of the research: the wine does not come from an alcohol producer, but from a supermarket chain. So far, 6,500 people have signed up, but the researchers are still waiting for another 3,500 Spanish residents to apply.