In moderation and as part of an overall healthy diet, the short answer is yes!
Because of its alcohol content and non-alcoholic phytochemicals (naturally occurring plant compounds), wine has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers and slow the progression of neurological degenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. However, if you drink more than what’s recommended, your health benefits are lost and your health risks go up.
For men, no more than two 5-ounce glasses of red or white wine, 12 ounces of regular beer or 1 1/2 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirit per day is considered safe and effective; for women, no more than one drink of the same amount per day.
The health benefits of wine
o The primary cardiovascular benefits from red and white wine, hard liquor and beer is
that moderate amounts can raise your good cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) and thin your blood.
o Non-alcoholic phytochemicals in wine, such as flavanoids and resveratrol, act as antioxidants and prevent molecules known as “free radicals” from causing cellular damage in the body.
o Resveratrol has been shown to prevent blood clotting and plaque formation in arteries by altering lipid profiles and plasma viscosity.
o Red wine provides much more resveratrol compared to white. That’s because the longer the skin is kept on the grape during the wine-making process, the greater the concentration of resveratrol in the wine. Wines made in cooler climates have greater amounts of resveratrol too. Thus, red wines from cool climates have the most resveratrol.
The negative side of wine
Certain medical conditions may be worsened by the consumption of wine, so it’s vital you seek the advice of your personal physician.
But because there does seem to be some health benefits to drinking wine, I have started a Food and Wine Tasting 101 Class. The first class meets on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30. Registration is required, call the store to register at 402-467-5505. Cost is $20.00. We will feature 5 wines and have perfectly paired appetizers like Skewed Greek Salad, Smoked Gouda and Mushrooms, Cheese-stuffed Dates and Dark Chocolate Truffles.
http://www.hy-vee.com
This information provided to you by your Lincoln Hy-Vee dietitians.
It is not intended as medical advice.
Please consult a medical professional for individual advice
Eat Right and Bright 