Both red wine and grape juice contain resveratrol, a substance produced by plants in response to stress, injury or invading infection or fungus. According to the World's Healthiest Foods, more than 70 types of plants, including mulberries, peanuts, raspberries and eucalyptus, contain the antioxidant resveratrol. The skin of fresh grapes, especially those used to make wine and juice, contain significant amounts of resveratrol.
Cardiovascular Health
According to MayoClinic.com, drinking alcohol -- red wine included -- is believed to increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, decrease blood clot formation and prevent atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries linked to heart disease and angina, is a primary cause of death for U.S. men and women. Studies that support red wine suggest antioxidants in red wine called polyphenols preserve the lining of the heart's blood vessels, reducing inflammation and preventing blockages. Found in grape skin and seeds, polyphenols protect cells in the body from damage. Some studies indicate that drinking grape juice confers the same cardiovascular benefits as red wine without the alcohol, according to MayoClinic.com.
Cancer Protection
Evidence suggests resveratrol-rich red wine protects against cancer growth and progression, according to the National Cancer Institute. Drinking a glass of wine daily may cut a man's risk of developing prostate cancer by 50 percent, according to findings from a 2004 study led by Dr. Janet L. Stanford and published in the "International Journal of Cancer." Researchers believe that resveratrol inhibits tumor growth and reduces inflammation, thereby slowing the growth of cancer cells. However, consuming more than the recommended daily amount of red wine --- two 5 oz. glasses for men and one 5 oz. glass for women --- could increase the risk of some cancers, according to the National Cancer Institute. The NCI also notes that the studies on red wine consumption and cancer prevention in human are in their initial stages.
Longevity
Drinking the resveratrol found in grape juice and red wine could lengthen your lifespan, suggests research published in the November 2006 issue of "Nature." Middle-aged mice on a high-calorie diet fed resveratrol lived longer, had an improved ability to regulate insulin and better motor skills, compared to mice fed a resveratrol-free diet. Study researchers, led by J.A. Baur, theorize that these findings point toward new approaches to fight aging in humans.
References
- World's Healthiest Foods: Resveratrol: The Special Compound Found in Grapes
- MayoClinic.com: Red Wine and Resveratrol: Good for Your Heart?
- National Cancer Institute: Red Wine and Cancer Prevention
- PubMed.gov: "Nature"; Resveratrol Improves Health and Survival of Mice on a High-Calorie Diet
- EurekAlert: A Glass of Red Wine a Day May Keep Prostate Cancer Away
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