Various research studies suggest that there are innumerable health benefits of red wine, especially for the heart. The article tries to explore them.
Alcohol consumption has always been linked to chronic diseases and poor health, however, the fact is, there are some benefits of alcohol that can only be achieved by moderate consumption. While controlled drinking is harmless for the body, uncontrolled drinking can damage various organs. It has been scientifically proven that low, or moderate consumption of red wine, has several benefits for the heart. It is believed that people consuming moderate levels of red wine on a weekly basis, are less likely to develop heart diseases. at lesser chances of developing heart diseases.
Antioxidant Benefits
Antioxidants in red wine may help protect the lining of blood vessels in the heart. Red wine contains resveratrol, a natural antioxidant compound, found in the skin and seeds of the grapes. Its content in red wine is very high on account of the prolonged contact of the skin and the seeds of the grapes during the fermentation process. Resveratrol offers various health benefits due to its neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-viral, anti-aging, and cancer-preventive properties. It also reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Besides these, resveratrol has properties similar to estrogen, the female sex hormone and therefore, it could relieve some of the symptoms of menopause and reduce the risk of breast cancer. Moderate red wine drinkers are also at a lower risk of developing cancer-related disorders.
Benefits for the Heart
Saponin, the antioxidant in red wine helps in reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. LDL, or low density lipoprotein forms plaques on the inside of blood vessels on oxidation, and is mainly responsible for atherosclerosis (thickening of artery walls due to accumulation of cholesterol). Resveratrol also facilitates the smooth flow of blood and relaxes the muscles in the area near the blood vessels. It can also lower the risk of heart attacks or myocardial infarction. Recent studies have shown that red wine limits the formation of blood clots in the smaller blood vessels of the heart, which may restrict the passage of oxygen to vital organs like the heart and the brain, thereby causing a heart attack or a stroke.
Various sources suggest that red wine is very good for heart patients. While the beneficial properties of resveratrol complement this fact, it is not advisable that they start consuming it. Following the doctor’s prescription is always the safest route during the course of treatment. According to doctors, recommending red wine as a cure for heart diseases would be too early and imprudent. Besides that, there are chances that the person may get addicted to routine drinking and increase the red wine dose on a daily basis, which may have ill-effects on the health. While moderate consumption is acceptable, care should be taken that it does not exceed the threshold level. Studies are being conducted to find out more about the benefits so that, the antioxidant properties may be incorporated in medicines and pills.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.