Health Benefits of Red Wine
Your evening glass of red wine does more than complement your dinner, its powerful mix of antioxidants protect your heart and just may reduce your risk of cancer!
Interest in the protective effects of red wine was sparked by the “French Paradox” study, which found that despite a high intake of saturated fat and a high prevalence of smoking, the French population surprisingly had a lower incidence of heart disease compared to other countries.
Researchers believed the lower incidence of heart disease may be due to the high intake of red wine that is found in this country.
Red wine contains over 500 polyphenolic compounds, which are responsible for wine’s color and bitter taste. Resveratrol, a potent polyphenolic antioxidant, has received the most attention out of all the compounds in red wine.
Resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes, and there is a high concentration of resveratrol in red wine. Resveratrol has been shown to have protective effects against heart disease and many cancers.
A large study conducted in 2004 found that drinking 5 ounces of red wine daily, along with regular exercise, consumption of fruits and vegetables, and refraining from smoking may provide protection against heart attack, especially in women.
Numerous studies have shown that resveratrol can inhibit the growth of human cancer cells, most notably melanoma, stomach, colon, pancreatic, prostate, pancreatic, and leukemia cancer cells.
Resveratrol is capable of binding LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and preventing it from oxidation in the arteries, which is one of the first steps in the development of atherosclerosis
Reserveratrol may also promote recovery of heart muscle cells following a heart attack and reduce the area of damage. Resveratrol also exhibits heart protective effects by inhibiting platelet aggregation, helping to dilate coronary arteries, and increasing HDL (“good” cholesterol).
Moderation is the Key
5 ounces of red wine a day, which is a little over ½ cup, has been shown to protect against heart attack. Excess alcohol consumption is not necessary, and may even be more harmful than beneficial.
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