Health Benefits of Red Wine

25/07/2011 15:22

Scientists have long speculated that red wine might be the key to good health for people in wine-loving regions like France and the Mediterranean countries. Now we know red wine delivers a concentrated dose of antioxidants, compounds that protect the body's cells from damage.

  1. Heart Health

    • Antioxidants in red wine protect heart health in two ways: They prevent the built-up plaque that slows blood flow to the heart, and they also reduce dangerous blood clots.

    Brain Health

    • Red wine's antioxidants also reduce toxic plaque build-up in the brain. Studies suggest they might prevent and even reverse the accumulation of toxins that cause Alzheimer's disease.

    Cancer Fighting

    • A daily glass of red wine cuts men's prostrate cancer risk by 50 percent. Resveratrol, a key antioxidant, reduces the development of animal tumors and slows growth of cancerous cells in the laboratory.

    Warning

    • The recommended daily dose of wine is two glasses for men, one for women. Excessive drinking can actually increase your risk of liver damage and breast, throat and pancreatic cancer.

    Potential

    • Resveratrol supplements may deliver the benefits of red wine without the downsides of alcohol consumption. Berries, green tea and chocolate also contain natural antioxidants.

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