Wine is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages on the planet. Its history dates back 8,000 years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the earliest known wine production occurred in what is now the country of Georgia, followed by Iran, Armenia and later Greece, Egypt and China.
While heavy drinking of any alcoholic beverage can bring lots of health-related troubles rather than benefits, current research suggests that a glass of red wine each day may be providing you with more than just a little relaxation.
According to physician Julie Damp, “moderate consumption of alcohol is associated with a decreased incidence of cardiovascular disease, including lower risk of heart attacks.”
Moderate consumption means one 130mL glass for women, and one to two 130mL glasses for men per day.
Although no beverage can supplement the benefits of daily exercise and a well-balanced diet, moderate consumption of wine could be more beneficial than that of beer or spirits, according to studies from France, UK, Finland and Denmark.
Researchers have found that resveratrol, a type of natural phenol, produces neuroprotective effects. Resveratrol is found in red grape skins and appears to be the source of red wine’s health benefits. It may prevent fat accumulation and reduce insulin resistance, which lowers the risk of diabetes, says dietitian Amanda Bontempo. Moderate wine drinking also correlates with a lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
And that’s not all resveratrol can do. Studies have shown this molecule can reduce tumor incidence by targeting different stages in cancer development, Bontempo explains.
Acute smoking significantly impairs the natural ability of blood vessels to relax. Red wine is proven to decrease the harmful effects of smoking on the layer of cells – reducing lining in lymph vessels, blood vessels, and the heart.
Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for hypertension, however, there is evidence of favorable effects of red wine on blood pressure. A glass of red wine together with a meal, lowers post-meal blood pressure in people with hypertension. And while people are usually cautioned about alcohol interfering with sleep, red wine, which contains an anti-oxidant called melatonin, can actually help with sleep.
For most, drinking wine can be a good thing. It is good to remember though that drinking more wine than the recommended amounts can have an adverse effect, and people who suffer from migraines, those who are trying to lose weight, and women who are pregnant are recommended not to drink alcoholic beverages of any sort.
For everyone else, enjoy and be healthy!
