Discover the Top 5 Surprising Health Benefits of Savoring Wine

You’ve probably heard by now: drinking wine is good for your health. But with all the chatter about which types of wine to drink, how much is appropriate, and what’s true or exaggerated, you might feel tempted to just grab a martini. Before reaching for the gin, let’s talk about the real, proven health benefits of wine. Remember, the key is moderate consumption: one five-ounce glass per day for women and one or two for men.

**Boosts Heart Health**
Red wine is good for your heart. Although all alcohol can help increase HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and reduce artery thickening, red wine has some unique cardiovascular perks. The grape skin used in red wine has resveratrol, a compound that reduces plaque buildup in arteries, prevents blood clots, and acts as an antioxidant to fend off cell damage. A Harvard study even found that wine drinkers with high blood pressure are 30% less likely to have heart attacks compared to non-drinkers. Additionally, red wine’s tannins contain procyanidin, another antioxidant that helps lower heart disease risk. For the best results, look for wines from southwest France and Sardinia, known for their high procyanidin content.

**Supports Brain Function**
In 2008, researchers from Oxford University found that daily red wine drinkers (who also enjoyed chocolate and tea) had a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, and their cognitive skills were sharper compared to non-drinkers. This advantage stems from the flavonoids, particularly resveratrol, found in grape skins. However, moderation is crucial—excessive drinking can lead to higher risks of brain conditions, including dementia.

**Reduces Certain Cancer Risks**
Resveratrol also helps lower the risk of certain cancers, such as breast, prostate, colon, and lung cancer. It works by attacking enzymes involved in tumor growth, killing cancer cells, and blocking the blood vessels that support tumors. But, this benefit is mostly seen in those who stick to one or two drinks per day, as too much alcohol can increase the risk of cancers in various organs.

**Lowers Diabetes Risk**
A 12-year study by VU University Medical Center showed that daily wine drinkers have a 30% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Resveratrol plays a role here, too, as it reduces insulin resistance and prevents fat buildup. Keep in mind that wine contains calories (about 100-150 per glass), so excessive drinking can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Moderation is key.

**Promotes Longevity**
The lower rates of common health issues among wine drinkers contribute to their greater longevity. Moreover, moderate wine consumption often aligns with other healthy habits, like regular exercise and a balanced diet. Regardless of the reasons, wine drinkers tend to live longer.

Red wine generally has more health benefits than white wine because white wine doesn’t include grape skins, the primary source of antioxidants. Still, white wine offers some health advantages. So, go ahead, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, relax, and enjoy doing something good for your health.