Health Benefits of Wine
There have been many studies and articles in the news in recent years about the health benefits of wine. Many people have linked these studies back to what is commonly called the French Paradox. This comes from the fact that the French, whose diets are rich in cream, butter, and cheese, don’t have a higher incidence of heart disease. After much scientific research, it was finally discovered that the solution was the wine they consumed.
Wine lowers cholesterol by changing the blood lipid levels. It also makes it more difficult for blood to clump inside the body, and can break up clots already there, reducing the risk of stroke. It is found to reduce insulin levels, and in moderation can reduce blood pressure. The key of course, is moderation. Studies have shown that people who drink a glass or two of wine a day are healthier than people who don’t drink, but excess in wine consumption has its own health risks.
Unlike other alcoholic beverages, red wine does not suppress the bodies’ immune system, making it more likely for people who drink other types of alcohol to get sick. There are also studies that suggest that wine can increase bone mass, especially in women.
Much has been made lately about the benefits of antioxidants which can be obtained from many fruits and vegetables. Red wine is a very good source of some of these antioxidants. Finally, consumption of wine has been found to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers.
Although the health benefits of wine have been touted for thousands of years, it is good that scientific studies have finally shown that in many cases, these assumptions are true. A moderate intake of wine, one to three glasses a day is a healthy and relaxing way to improve your bodies’ health.