Heart Healthy Benefits of Wine
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Wine is FULL of antioxidants: flavonoids and resveratrol!
These wonderful phytochemicals (naturally occurring chemicals found in plants that may have some health benefit) help to reduce heart disease in the following ways:
- Preventing molecules known as “free radicals” from causing cellular damage in the body
- Blocking cholesterol oxidation
- Reducing the risk of blood clots by preventing platelets from being sticky
- Reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol
- Increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “healthy”) cholesterol
- Preventing damage to blood vessels in your heart
- Helping maintain a healthy blood pressure
A moderate amount of wine may lower your risk of heart attack. The key here is the word MODERATE. Moderate is defined as:
Men: 2 drinks per day
Women: 1 drink per day
One drink is defined as a 5-ounce glass of red or white wine, 12 ounces of regular beer (1 bottle) or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.
Eating whole red or purple grapes has benefits, as well. The antioxidants are found most in the seeds and skins of the grapes. Peanuts, blueberries and cranberries are also great sources.
Caution: there are also serious side effects of alcohol. If you do not already drink alcohol, do not start for the reasons stated above. Alcohol may increase triglycerides, contribute to high blood pressure, heart failure and excessive calorie intake. Follow the guidelines for moderation and please drink responsibly.
