Red Wine Benefits for A Healthy Heart

Age gracefully is what red wine is often referred as. Wine drinking had been related to lifestyle, attitude, taste and personal preference. Termed as God’s drink, red wine consist of certain properties which are considered beneficial for human body, especially the heart. Scientists have discovered the reason why red wine appears to protect the heart. According to a report from Washington, Scientists believes that a natural compound found in red wine may protect the heart against the effects of the aging process.
Flavonoids, a natural compound and antioxidant, in Red wine reduce the risk of heart disease by controlling the cholesterol level. These flavonoids lower the risk of coronary heart disease by reducing your LDL or bad cholesterol levels. At the same time these flavonoids actually increase your HDL or good cholesterol levels and decrease the likelihood of blood clotting. Scientists believe that there may be other health benefits from red wine. A recent study discovered that an antioxidant in the skins of red grapes, called resveratrol, may inhibit the growth of tumors in some cancers. It’s possible that resveratrol can help treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well and new studies are on the way.

Researchers at University of California at Davis have concluded that full-bodied dry red wines contain the highest levels of flavonoids and provide the greatest benefits. The number one wine for supplying the most flavonoids is Cabernet Sauvignon with Petit Syrah and Pinot Noir also ranking highly. Sweeter wines and white wines have less flavonoid and are less beneficial.

Wine health benefits have been around for a long time. It has been linked with all sorts of health benefits over the years: the heart, the lungs, prevention of breast cancer, prostate cancer, tooth decay, longevity and just general wellbeing. But it is very important to take care of the quantity we need to consume. Keeping this fact in mind that moderation is the key, women should drink 4 ounces of red wine daily and men 4-8 ounces.

For people who do not want to drink alcohol, there are alternatives. Some research has pointed out that cranberry juice, red or purple grape juice work as well, maybe better, than red wine. However, fresh grapes do not have as high a concentration of antioxidants as processed grape juice or wine, although some health food stores sell resveratrol as a nutritional supplement. In addition, other studies indicate that black or green tea may be more beneficial than wine in reducing heart disease as well as cancer and other diseases. However, tea, grape juice, or wine consumption doesn't take the place of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise, No smoking, low fat foods, and lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and water are undoubtedly the key to good health.

source: OctanMen.com