While drinking too much alcohol can be harmful for your body, recent studies show that drinking a glass of wine each day can actually promote good health. To experience the benefits of wine, you must stick to the guidelines of alcohol consumption and not drink too much. Women can safely drink one glass each day, while men can splurge on two glasses. Here are five reasons wine is beneficial for your health:
It Promotes Heart Health
Drinking wine in moderation promotes heart health. In 1992, researchers found that even though the French consumed foods high in fat, they had a 36 percent lower risk of developing heart disease. The benefits increase even more when you drink red wine, which contains high levels of antioxidants.
It Reduces Cancer Risks
A glass of wine a day cuts the risk of developing certain cancers such as esophageal, prostate and pancreatic cancer. The key is the antioxidants contained in wine, especially Resveratrol. Grapes grown in cooler climates are thought to contain the highest levels of this health-boosting ingredient.
It Lowers Your Risk of Disease
Red wine contains an ingredient that significantly lowers the risk of developing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and even some cancers. Resveratrol, found in red grapes, greatly promotes insulin resistance in the body. It also improves cardiovascular functions and reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The benefits of resveratrol can be found on many health sites, and red wine is an excellent choice to get these beneficial results.
It’s Good For the Gut
Wine, especially red wine, is good for your gut. A recent Spanish study found that those who drank eight ounces of wine each day were able to change the mixture of good and bad bacteria in the body. This is due to the polyphenols contained in many wines, especially the ones lower in alcohol content. These drinks also reduced inflammation and decreased triglyceride levels, which can improve your overall health. Learn more about the variety of red wines to choose from that can keep you healthy.
It Helps You Maintain a Healthy Weight
Studies have shown that people who drink a glass or two of wine each day generally weigh less than those who do not drink. This is thought to be due to the fact that moderate drinkers are far more likely to eat a diet rich in healthy fats, lean proteins and vegetables. By keeping your consumption of wine in check, you can maintain your weight much easier. Instead of gaining more weight that can be caused from drinking a lot of beer every day, consider drinking a glass of wine instead.
While drinking a glass of wine a day has many health benefits, consumption must remain within healthy guidelines. Drinking alcohol in excess can lead to many health problems such as liver disease, increased cancer risk, cardiovascular problems and addiction. When you enjoy a glass of wine in moderation, you are actually doing your body more good than you may realize.