The Health Benefits of Wine

Wine lovers were glad to find out that there were studies done to prove that wine is, in fact, beneficial to our health. In France, in the mid 90's, researchers were curious as to why people who ate diets high in cheese fats were not having heart attacks. They found out that it was their moderate and regular intake of wine that made them healthier.

After this finding, continued studies showed in favor of drinking wine. In continued findings today, researchers are making noteworthy, new, and positive results from consuming wine.

At first, the healing powers of the antioxidant, resveratrol, found in red grape skins was a contributing factor to the benefits. Now, however, they are finding as many benefits from white wines. Winemakers are making efforts to alter their production in order to boost health benefits in white wine.

The overall health benefit of wine is its anti-aging effect found in red grape skins. Arteries kept clean by polyphenols in red grape skins aid in the prevention of stroke. There has been significant improved lung function from antioxidants found in white wine. Cancer cells have been destroyed by protein in red grape skins. People from the Mediterranean region who regularly drank red wine have lower risks of heart disease. Healthier blood vessels have been seen in the elderly, and coronary heart disease has reduced. Ulcer-causing bacteria is reduced in wine drinkers.

There have been some gender-specific benefits too. It is shown that women have decreased ovarian cancer risk, stronger bones, and a lower risk of stroke. Men with high blood pressure have been less likely to suffer a heart attack.

The main idea is to drink wine in moderation in order to attain the wonderful health benefits. Moderation is defined as a 4 oz. glass or two each day, one glass for women and one to two for men. This does not mean 7-14 glasses on Saturday night! Too much wine in a day or week will tip your health scale in the opposite direction, and you won't benefit from its disease prevention qualities.

If you don't already drink alcohol, the American Heart Association doesn't recommend you start. Alcohol drinking may increase bad cholesterol and result in weight gain because of empty calories. So if you don't currently drink alcohol, don't start now. Instead, non-drinkers should stick to eating grapes and other fruits and vegetables to get their antioxidants. Regular exercise offers the same benefits for the heart. Cheers to your health!