It has been said that a single four-ounce glass of resveratrol-rich red wine can do more than just relax you; it can keep the doctor away. Researchers at the University of California--Davis have gone on to isolate which varietals have the highest concentration of flavonoids, an antioxidant. The verdict? Cabernet sauvignon, followed by pinot noir and petit syrah.
Cardiovascular Health
Yale-New Haven Hospital notes that the flavonoids in red wine may reduce coronary heart disease by lowering low density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad cholesterol." and boosting high density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good cholesterol," while reducing blood clotting. Mayclinic.com also says alcohol can help prevent artery damage caused by LDL.
Disease Prevention and Treatment
According to Yale-New Haven Hospital, antioxidant resveratrol---found in the skin of red grapes---might inhibit the growth of tumors in some types of cancer. TODAYShow.com also notes phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring plant chemicals, may be responsible for slowing the progression of certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Additionally, a daily glass of red wine also may aid in the prevention of age-related diabetes, says ScienceDaily.com.
Inflammatory Diseases
A study published in the August 2009 print issue of Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology says resveratrol, found in red wine, helps control inflammation. As a result, it's believed that disorders like peritonitis, appendicitis and systemic sepsis may benefit from being treated with resveratrol.
Cell Health
A study scheduled for publication in Cellular and Molecular Biology notes that resveratrol plays a role in optimizing the way individual cells in the body perform. The University of Queensland adds that resveratrol may not only kill cancer cells but also can protect heart cells and protect against brain ailments.
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