Drinking red wine for health dates back hundreds of years, but only recently has the medical field been able to understand the health benefits. Though no conclusions about consuming red wine have been made, antioxidants may be the key to heart health, according to MayoClinic.com. Still, many doctors are hesitant to tell patients to consume wine because of the side effects of drinking too much. Drinking red wine in moderation is recommended -- no more than one drink for women and two drinks for men.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is the nonflavonoid antioxidant found in wine. The substance is found in both white and red wine, but red wine contains much higher amounts. The substance may prevent damage to blood vessels, decrease blood clots and lower cholesterol levels, according to MayoClinic.com. Still, studies have only been conducted on mice. In studies conducted on animals, the amount of resveratrol would equal to a human consuming 100 to 1,000 bottles of red wine in one day. A variety of over-the-counter resveratrol supplements are available. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate supplements.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are a type of antioxidant that may possibly increase high-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol, says MayoClinic.com. Flavonoids may also reduce a person's risk of clogged arteries and high blood pressure. Flavonoids are also found in green tea and dark chocolate.
Alternatives to Red Wine
Some people may prefer to not consume red wine for the health benefits. According to MayoClinic.com, resveratrol may also be found in red and purple grapes as well as grape juice. Their health benefits are the same, including reduction of blood clotting, cholesterol and damage to blood vessels. MayoClinic.com suggests that all types alcohol, in moderation, have these same health benefits. Still, Medline Plus says a healthy heart can be achieved by exercising, consuming a healthy diet and not smoking. A person who eats whole grapes, such as the Concord grape, may also get additional benefits of fiber in his diet.
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