Why Drinking Wine is Good For You
When it comes to self-indulgence, reaching for a bottle of wine and a champagne flute is a choice many of us do not hesitate to take. There’s a little je ne sais quoi in the oft-called nectar of the gods, which makes for a pretty exquisite drinking experience. And if lifting spirits isn’t enough, a glass or two of wine also offers health benefits that your body is sure to thank you one day for. Here are some of them:
Wine helps prevent cellular damage.
Wine is among the many beverages containing antioxidants, which are compounds that help prevent cellular damage. Drinking red wine may increase your blood antioxidant levels as red wine grapes contain high levels of polyphenols, the antioxidants that have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Keep in mind that higher antioxidant status, achieved through drinking red wine, is associated with a decreased risk of disease.
It reduces the risk of inflammation.
Wine is rich in a compound called resveratrol, which has anti-inflammatory properties. As such, drinking wine may reduce the risk of chronic inflammation. Left unchecked, this harmful inflammation may lead to heart disease or autoimmune disorders, as well as some types of cancers.
It can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
A 2019 study found that red wine intake has been related to a lesser risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). The high concentration of polyphenol antioxidants in wine is thought to help in increasing blood flow, which in turn, lowers the risk of clots that cut off blood supply and damage heart muscles. Aside from reducing blood pressure, drinking wine may also reduce the risk of high cholesterol.
It makes bones stronger.
Drinking wine may have a positive effect on your bones. A study showed that moderate wine consumption can lead to increased bone mineral density, the measure physicians use to determine bone strength and resilience. Thus, consuming wine may cut the risk of osteoporosis.
It keeps the brain sharp.
According to researchers, the resveratrol in wine activates a chemical pathway that helps limit stress and damage to DNA cells in the brain, which would otherwise lead to aging and disease. Wine has also been found to lower inflammation in the brain and help it clear away toxins. It may even help in staving off diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
It makes you look younger.
A glass of wine may contain one of the secrets to looking youthful. The antioxidants in it have been found to rejuvenate old cells, making them look younger and start to behave more like young cells.
It promotes longevity.
Studies have found that drinking wine can lead to a longer life thanks to wine’s high antioxidant content. Just keep in mind that moderation is key, along with a balanced diet that emphasizes food packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
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With moderation, you can enjoy the health benefits that come with wine. However, excessive consumption of it can be detrimental to your health. Liver damage and obesity are among the health issues you may experience if you drink too much wine. Remember that a glass or two per day is enough.
