Health Benefits of Drinking Wine

food and wine tastingPeople all around the world enjoy drinking wine. What many people don’t realize are the many health benefits of moderate wine consumption. Drinking wine can decrease mortality rate and improve your overall health.

While there are numerous health benefits to drinking wine, it’s important not to overdo it. Drinking too much wine can have a negative effect on your health. As a general rule, men shouldn’t consume more than 2 glasses of wine per day and women shouldn’t drink more than 1 glass of wine per day.

When pouring yourself a glass, you might be tempted to fill it all the way up. In order to ensure you don’t drink more than the recommended amount, never fill your glass more than five ounces.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants fight free radicals in the body. Consuming antioxidant rich foods helps reduce the chance of developing cancer and other illnesses. A daily glass of wine can reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer, and breast cancer.

While most people believe that red wine is best for their health, this isn’t always the case. Studies have shown that white wine has just as many, if not more antioxidants than red.

Immune System Boost

Moderate alcohol consumption helps fight off infections and gives the immune system a boost. However, drinking too much wine has the opposite effect. It’s important to stick with the recommended daily limits.

Increased Bone Density

Bones become more brittle as we age. While most people turn to calcium supplements to counteract this process, a glass of red wine can help as well. The silicon in red wine increases bone density, reducing the chance of osteoporosis.

Reduced Risk of Stroke

Blood clots are extremely common. When these clots travel to the brain they can cause a stroke. Alcohol acts as a natural blood thinner, reducing the chance of blood clots. However, it’s important to always drink in moderation. Consuming large amounts of alcohol actually increases the chance of heart attack and stroke.

Reduced Risk of Heart Attack

Studies have shown that regular consumption of red wine can reduce the chance of heart disease. This is likely due to the procyanidins found in the tannins of red wine. These phenols are extremely effective at preventing cardiovascular disease.

Improved Cognitive Function

Drinking a glass of red wine can improve brain function and slow the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Red wine contains special chemicals that actually prevent the death of brain neurons.

Increased Lifespan

According to science, drinking wine can make you live longer. This is thanks to the resveratrol found in wine. When you drink a glass of wine, the resveratrol activates a protein that increases overall health. However, drinking more than the recommended amount can have a negative effect on your health.

Stop by Breaux Vineyards in Loudoun County to enjoy a glass of our award winning wine. We look forward to seeing you!

 

*The purpose of this post is to provide information of a general nature, not medical advice. This information is not a substitute for consultation with a physician. The information contained herein is believed to be accurate, but no warranty is made as to accuracy or appropriateness. This information may become outdated or incomplete with time.