News Reports: Red Wine and Health

Red Wine Could Lower Chances of Heart Disease

Over the past several decades, scientific reports and studies have been released in educational journals which address the question of whether or not drinking alcohol, specifically red wine, is linked to extended life span because of lower incidences of heart disease. Some researchers have suggested that there are health benefits associated with red wine. Others are examining the potential benefits of components in red wine such as flavonoids and other antioxidants in reducing the risk of heart disease. Some scientists argue, on the other hand, that the link published in many of these studies may be due to other cultural and lifestyle factors instead of alcohol consumption. Some factors, for example, may involve additional physical activity and a diet with considerable higher levels of fruits and vegetables. Also, lower saturated fast in the diet may have a considerable influence on these studies regarding the effect of red wine and the risk of developing heart disease or stroke.

Healthy Red Wine

A diet rich with resveratrol, especially for those within the age range in the mid thirty's and forty's, has been shown to provide heart benefits as well as other health benefits such as strong bones and healthy eyesight as demonstrated with a lower incidence of cataracts, according to scientists.

This theory was supported by a recent study, which involved mice. The mice that were in their middle age were fed a diet supplemented with resveratrol and they showed considerable improvement in health compared to the mice that were not fed the resveratrol-supplemented diet.

The study found that daily intake of the compound resveratrol improves the quality of life in middle-aged mice. Despite that, the age-benefits of resveratrol were similar to those previously linked to adhering to a rigorous calorie-restricted diet, which raised hopes for a more simple and desirable way to fight off age-related decline. Indeed, restricting caloric intake is not a lifestyle that many people prefer, while red wine consumption seems to some as a more attractive option.

Red Wine and Antioxidants

Red wine is an especially rich origin of antioxidants and many studies have revealed a cause for the positive effects of red wine - resveratrol and flavonoids. Resveratrol, which is prominent in grape skins, grape seeds and blueberries as well as the curst of peanuts and walnuts, has been documented as a factor that increases HDL cholesterol - which prevents blood from clotting. Meanwhile, flavonoids have been shown to exhibit antioxidant resources which help to prevent blood clots and dangerous plaque formation in the arteries.

Scientists Probe Red Wine Health Benefits

A study conducted at Harvard Medical School led by De Cabo and David A. Sinclair recently published their findings in the July issue of Cell Metabolism. The results lead credence to the theory that suggests resveratrol found in red wine can actually slow the aging process in men and minimize the chances of developing heart disease. David Sinclair contends that the study showed health can be increased and life span can be lengthened.

Additional studies were conducted at the National Institute of Aging as part of the National Institute of Health as a continuance to a previous study in 2006 which showed that resveratrol improved health and longevity of overweight mice. The continuance study reported support for the theory that the compound had similar effects as calorie restriction, which to date is one of the most sure way documented to alleviate diseases which are age-related.

How Much Red Wine is Healthy?

One glass of red wine daily can establish benefits, according to the study. And moderation is the key. Pregnant women, however, should never drink alcohol in any form.

Other Benefits to Health

In addition to being called an age-defying chemical which can reduce heart disease, resveratrol has been linked to a reduction in breast cancer by suppressing the creation of tumor cells and production. Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in women, afflicting nearly forty-five thousand women per year in the UK.

Resveratrol and Breast Cancer

Resveratrol is a chemical that actually blocks the way that oestrogen joins with the DNS in women's bodies to create cancer, specifically breast cancer.

Red Wine Compound Slows Aging Process In Men

Researchers suggest that a glass a day of red wine can help slow down the aging process in men, as well as improving their quality of life.

Not all Studies Show Positive Health Benefits

Studies also show that alcohol may increase triglycerides, a blood lipid which is not beneficial to health and can have the side effect of weight gain due to the empty calories. And some studies indicate that alcohol consumption may lead to an increased risk in cancer.

A study released by The American Heart Association indicates that people who do not already drink alcohol should not start. If, on the other hand, you already drink alcohol, do so in moderation. The Association recommends one to two glasses per day for men and only one glass per day for women. Again, it is stressed that pregnant women should not drink alcohol under any circumstance.

Consult a Health Professional

If you have any concerns about the health benefits of red wine, it is recommended that you consult a health care professional for a private consultation. And check back each week for more health, science news.