Red wine has health benefits due to its high antioxidant content, particularly resveratrol, which protects the heart and blood vessels. The French paradox, where a high-fat diet and low exercise rates are not associated with high rates of heart disease, may be partially explained by moderate red wine consumption. However, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to other health problems, so it is recommended to drink only a small amount per day.
Red wine is a wine made from whole grapes and pressed with the skins intact. The health benefits of red wine include lowering cholesterol and a lower risk of heart disease. The heart-healthy Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes the use of olive oil instead of other fats, includes a moderate amount of red wine each day.
Grape skins are the part of the fruit that is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are believed to have anti-aging effects by protecting the body from free radicals, which damage cells. Antioxidants also help reduce damage to arteries by raising blood levels of HDL cholesterol, also known as the “good cholesterol” that contributes to cardiovascular health.
The antioxidant that provides the health benefits of red wine is called resveratrol. Resveratrol is a type of polyphenol that protects the blood vessels within the heart. Resveratrol is also found in blueberries and peanuts, although the concentration of the compound is much higher in red wine. Most of the resveratrol is found in grape skins, but there is more resveratrol by volume in red wine than in raw grapes. Because white wine is made without grape skins, the resveratrol content is much lower.
Other health benefits of red wine come from a class of antioxidants called flavonoids. Flavonoids are compounds in fruits and vegetables that give them their flavor. Flavonoids help prevent blood clots and promote good circulation. These antioxidants are found in smaller amounts in beer and white wine, as well as oranges, tea, apples, and onions.
In the late 20th century, the notion of the so-called “French paradox” led health researchers to investigate the benefits of red wine. The French paradox refers to the lifestyle of the south of France, which involves little exercise, tobacco use, and a diet high in animal fats and carbohydrates. However, the rate of obesity and heart disease in this region is among the lowest in the world. Some research suggests that red wine in moderate amounts may contribute to this apparent abnormality.
The American Heart Association warns that alcohol consumption leads to other health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver disease. To get the health benefits of red wine and minimize the risks, drink only a small amount a day. Men should not drink more than two 4-ounce (118 ml) glasses of red wine per day. Women should limit themselves to one glass a day.
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