Imbibing for Health
After a long day, most of us look forward to relaxing with a glass of wine. Luckily, many studies have shown that imbibing in this delicious beverage in moderation can improve health. Many experts believe red wine especially can promote a longer lifespan, protect against certain cancers, improve mental health, and provide cardiovascular benefits. Moderate wine consumption varies depending on your gender, age, weight, and general state of health. A general rule for moderate wine consumption is up to two 5 fluid ounce glasses per day for men, and up to one 5 fluid ounce glass for women.
Cancer Protection
Studies have shown that moderate red wine consumption can work to protect against certain types of cancer. Specifically, it has been shown to reduce the rate of bowel tumors in colon cancer patients by approximately 50%.
Red wine has also been shown to prevent breast cancer. This is a truly astounding finding because other alcohol consumption has been shown to increase the risk for breast cancer. The skin and seeds of red grapes contain antioxidants called polyphenols, which reduce estrogen levels while raising testosterone in premenopausal women. Red wine contains a specific kind of polyphenol called resveratrol, and it helps to reduce tumor incidence and inflammation.
Heart Health
Most of us have heard that drinking red wine in moderation is good for your heart, but do you know you why? Once again, it has to do with the powerful antioxidant resveratrol.
Studies show that it helps protect the lining of your blood vessels in your heart. It has also been shown to prevent damage to blood vessels, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), and prevent blood clots.
Ward Off Depression
A Spanish study conducted in 2012 showed that drinking small amounts of alcohol, mostly red wine, can help depression. It is important to note that drinking too much alcohol, including red wine, can actually lead to mental health problems and
can exacerbate depression. The study followed 5,500 light to moderate drinkers of both genders over a seven year period. They found that people who drank two to seven glasses of red wine per week were less prone to depression than non-drinkers.
Scientists believe that because depression and heart disease share similar protective and risk factors, that the antioxidants in red wine have the same beneficial effect for both conditions.
Overall, drinking a small amount of red wine each day may be helpful to your health in the long run. Just be aware of how much you drink and avoid drinking in excess. Also, most experts advise that if you are not a drinker, do not start drinking for the health benefits. Here’s to your health!
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