Red Wine In All Its Glory

When we first introduced the Mediterranean Diet to you we discussed a little about Red Wine being part of the Mediterranean Lifestyle. Drinking moderately has shown that it is able to help with heart disease (studies have shown that people residing in the Mediterranean areas in fact have lower risks of heart disease) and generally provides antioxidants that fight against free radicals in your body which is helping your heart. Red Wine also helps with blood circulation by preventing blood clots that can lead to serious medical problems. Studies have shown that women that drink one glass of wine a day and men that drink up to two glasses of wine per day lowers their chances of getting a heart attack in middle aged individuals. Studies have also shown that Red Wine raises the good cholesterol in your body (HDL) and lowers and prevents the bad cholesterol (LDL).

Red wine also has a role in preventing certain cancers that can harm your body. The antioxidants that are found in Red Wine come from the grapes skin and seeds. According to the National Cancer Institute the polyphenols are the antioxidants with anti-cancer properties. Also an interesting fact on why red wine is the so-called ‘Godly’ wine compared to white wine is because when making whine wine the skins of the grapes are removed (this is partially where the antioxidant properties come from). An important polyphenol is Resveratrol which was produced “as part of a plant’s defense system against disease.” Interestingly enough, the resveratrol produced is there in order to response and fight off stress, infection, injury and even invading fungus in plants (National Cancer Institute). Resveratrol is an amazing type of polyphenol because of the amazing things it can do; it has been shown to reduce tumors from developing into cancer in animals. This antioxidant really helps the immune system tremendously by having an effect on cancer cell growth. Overall we can say that Red Wine is the superman of wines, helping your heart and helping to prevent cancer. Remember, drink moderately, enjoy and remember that by being responsible you are helping your body into being a healthier and happier being.

Reference:
http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/pressreleases/redwine