I had the pleasure recently of dining out with some good friends. My friend “Jane” surprised me by drinking red wine. When she drank, it was never red wine, as she complained about the taste and temperature.
As it turns out my friend, who is an information junky, had recently read that research has shown benefits of drinking red wine to one’s health, specifically, beneficial to the heart.
Jane is actually correct – there have been several studies reporting that red wine (in moderation – one glass per day for women and two for men) does produce some health benefits.
There have been some studies involving people from Mediterranean countries, who’s diets where very high in fat. Researchers found that even though participants ate a high fat diet, their LDL (bad cholesteral) was low and their HDL (good cholesteral) was high. They also reported low blood pressure for participants. When looking for a common link, researchers found that all of the participants drank red wine.
It is believed that there are 2 antioxidants in the red wine grape (seeds and skin) called resveratrol and flavonoids. Unlike white wine, skin and seeds are included in the fermentation process of red wine. Red wine, therefore, contains more of these antioxidants than white wine.
Resveratrol is responsible for raising HDL cholesterol. This helps prevent blood clots. Flavonoids help prevent plaque from forming in arteries, in addition to helping prevent blood clots.
New evidence, however, is showing that white wine and other types of alcohol may have health benefits as well. In fact, one study showed that the molecules in white wine are smaller and more easily absorbed than red wine.
Isn’t it wonderful when we discover health benefits to what has been traditionally known as a bad habit (drinking). Yes, it’s great but there is plenty of reason to make sure one is drinking alcohol only in moderation.
In every study, researchers are quick to point out that only drinking in moderation will produce any health benefits. In fact, they go on to say that alcohol abuse will cause far more devastating health problems than benefits.
Alcohol abuse leads to addition, weight gain (including obesity), high blood pressure and damages major organs (including your heart). If you don’t drink, there are better ways to lower blood pressure. If you drink in moderation – great, stick to that.
If you are trying to lower your blood pressure or lose weight, I would instead suggest both my High Blood Pressure program and my Weight Loss Breeze program, respectively. They are both non-addictive, and all natural with proven results!
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