Today, the general consensus is that red wine is healthy for the heart, when consumed in moderation. It contains 'polyphenols', which are antioxidants that have been shown to protect your heart's blood vessels. The exact function of these polyphenols is to help protect and maintain the lining of these blood vessels, which in turn helps to prevent long term heart problems.
You may have also heard of 'resveratrol', which is a specific antioxidant in red wine. This new buzz word is heard everywhere today when the health benefits of wine are preached. Resveratrol is present in the skins of the grapes used to make red wine. This is why it is red, and not white or rose wine which is claimed to have health benefits, as white wine is not kept in contact for very long with its grape's skins.
Resveratrol may reduce bad cholesterol in the body, as well as prevent blood clotting. Studies to prove that Resveratrol does indeed reduce the chance of heart disease are ongoing.
Scientists have also found that Resveratrol, in conjunction with other polyphenols, reduces the risk of cancer of the prostate, lung, breast as well as leukemia by up to 60%. This is likely because of the anti-inflammatory properties of the antioxidant.
Red wine has also been found to stop bad proteins from causing plaque build-up in the human brain, which is the leading cause of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Many grape varietals o wine have also been found to contain melatonin. Melatonin helps the body regulate sleep and circadian rhythms. It allows the body to feel alert and awake during the day, while inducing deep sleep at night. Melatonin can be taken as a supplement as well, and many use it to help fall asleep and to regenerate energy for the next day. It is found in great concentration in the skins of red wine.
Other studies have pointed to the benefits of the alcohol in wine. It can increase levels of high density cholesterol (the good kind), prevent artery damage, and reduce the chances of a blood clot.
So what are you waiting for? Enjoy your life with a healthy glass of red wine!
To learn more about wine countries, grapes, resources and other red wine health benefits click on the link.
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