Benefits of Red Wine – Understand its Effects on Protecting Heart
Red wine is widely acclaimed by wine connoisseurs across the world for its rich color and complexity of flavor. Experts list the health benefits of red wine that range from antioxidant properties to its ability to prevent heart diseases.
Benefits of Red Wine – for General Well Being and Health
Research on the benefits of red wine has shown that consuming red wine over other alcoholic drinks and spirits provide more benefits for overall health and well-being. While alcoholic consumption is generally associated with an increased risk of hypertension, red wine taken along with meals is shown to have favorable effects on blood pressure in hypertensive persons. There are other benefits of red wine, when consumed in moderation. Certain varieties of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti, and Merlot contains a compound called melatonin. This compound plays an important role in regulating the body’s internal clock. It also has anti-aging and cancer preventative properties. Studies show that drinking a small quantity of red wine just before going to bed, may help in better and restful sleep.
Calories in Red Wine – Drink in Moderation
The calories in red wine are much lesser than what is found in many other alcoholic drinks. A five oz serving of red wine contains about 120 calories and consists of 3.2 grams of carbohydrates. Generally, the calories in red wine may range from 90 to 120 per glass, based on the serving size. It is important to know that the body metabolizes alcohol before it burns carbohydrates, fat or proteins. This may add empty calories and result in weight gain unless red wine is consumed with caution and within limits. Red wine has several useful compounds like tannins and polyphenols derived from grapes and grape skins. This contributes to many of its health benefits.
Health Benefits of Red Wine – an Analysis
Experts say that the health benefits of red wine are surprisingly many. Red wine contains a compound called resveratol that has versatile roles in protecting the body. Resveratol and other polyphenols present in red wine release anti-oxidants are important for preventing coronary heart disease. They prevent initiation and progression of ‘atherosclerosis’ which refer to hardening of the walls of arteries. It also has a preventive role against certain forms of lung, breast, and prostate cancer. Resveratol also has anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective properties that ensure healthy body and brain function. Resveratol and saponins found in red wine help lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the system. Apart from these, red wine also reduces the formation of kidney stones and enhances blood clotting thus preventing thinning of blood. To get the best benefits, make sure that the quantity of red wine you consume is at optimum level.