Experts on the health impact of drinking a glass of wine
After a long day at work, enjoying a glass of red wine is one of life's simple pleasures. We are all aware of the negative effects of excessive drinking, from poor sleep and upset stomachs to severe headaches, but an occasional glass of red wine might actually benefit your body, particularly your heart.
As you savour your next glass of Merlot or Chianti, consider that you are ingesting valuable antioxidants and polyphenolic compounds such as resveratrol, catechin, epicatechin, quercetin, and anthocyanin. Just remember to keep it moderate – overindulgence will negate any potential health gains.
Despite their complex names, what is essential to understand is that many of these substances boast antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reports Surrey Live. Resveratrol, in particular, is noteworthy for its role in fighting heart disease, with research indicating it protects against blood vessel damage, reduces "bad" cholesterol levels, and helps prevent blood clots.
A study featured in "Molecules" and published by the National Library of Medicine states: "In the last decades, several human and animal studies have indicated that moderate red wine consumption has beneficial effects on health.
"As a consequence, a clear effect on the reduction of risk factors and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases have been observed."
Numerous studies back up the notion that a small glass of your preferred red wine can be heart-friendly, with one study highlighting enduring health benefits when coupled with a Mediterranean diet rich in whole foods and natural unprocessed fats.
Of course, there are caveats when it comes to alcohol consumption, as many healthcare professionals refrain from endorsing any alcohol intake due to its classification as a carcinogen. While moderate consumption may offer some benefits, a 2019 study concluded that the risks outweigh the advantages.
Victoria Taylor, senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, said: "Red wine is sometimes seen as a healthy choice, particularly as we associate it with the Mediterranean diet. But while it is often included in the traditional diet, it isn't an essential part and should be drunk in moderation.
"It contains antioxidants, which reportedly have a range of benefits. However, other foods – including grapes, blueberries and strawberries – provide antioxidants without the negative effects of alcohol."
Nonetheless, for Brits who choose to drink despite being aware of alcohol's impact, opting for red wine could be considered the "least bad" choice, and there are numerous other strategies to counteract the adverse effects.
During an appearance on BBC Radio 4, the late Dr Michael Mosley remarked: "Drinking red wine with a meal is much better for you than having it on its own."
He also referenced research findings, stating: "According to a recent longitudinal study, where researchers followed 312,000 people for an average of eleven years, a glass with food was associated with a 14% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes."
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