Red wines are robust, flavorful alcohol beverages that pair well with different foods, but they are also gaining credit as accouterments with health benefits. According to MayoClinic.com, red wine has heart-healthy benefits that other forms of alcohol may not share, including protective antioxidants. One glass a day may reduce your risk of of different diseases, but choose your reds carefully to get the most cardio-protective benefits.
Resveratrol and Antioxidants
Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound with antioxidant properties. These compounds are produced naturally in certain plants, like vining red wine grapes. As the grapes develop and ferment, the flavonoids that give the fruit aroma and taste form as well as the anthocyanins, or color pigments, and tannins, which add specific tastes.Within this process, the antioxidants within the fruit increase. Antioxidants are important for preventing your body from allowing free radicals to damage your cells. Free radicals are formed in your body as a residual effect, during the chemical process of oxidation, which is necessary for cell formation. The stronger the grape used in the process of making wine, the higher the likelihood of increased resveratrol and antioxidant benefit.
Madiran and Cabernet Varieties
Madiran is a region in southwest France notable for producing the healthiest red wine. The manufacturers of Madiran reds use the tannat grape, which is described as a rustic, earthy fruit with a pungent flavor. Madiran reds are slowly fermented and the grape seeds are soaked longer, resulting in high levels of procyanidins and antioxidants for keeping your arteries clear. Madiran reds are often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, another healthy red wine variety. Cabernet is a full-bodied, richly flavored wine readily available in your local wine shop. Madiran reds are not sold as commercially as Cabernet reds, but small wine shops may carry this beverage or place a special order for you.
Syrah, Pinot Noir and Merlot
Syrah, also referred to as Shiraz, red wines are spicier flavored varieties with black fruit such as black currants mixed with the deep red grapes. Pinot Noir, a lighter red wine with a fruitier base and Merlot, a medium red yet savory wine, are alternative healthy reds with flavonoids and antioxidants. Syrah, Pinot Noir and Merlot are available at your local market. These three red wine varieties are not as rich bodied or robustly flavored as Cabernet Sauvignon or Madiran, but they offer you similar health benefits from moderate consumption, the Yale-New Haven Hospital notes.
Moderate Consumption and Cautions
To reap the health benefits of red wine, women should consume one 4 oz. serving and men should consume one to two glasses of the same serving size per day. Drinking more red wine per day will not give you added health benefits and may lead to other health complications. If you do not already enjoy the occasional glass of red wine, it is not advised to start drinking. Excessive alcohol consumption increases your risk of high blood pressure, liver damage and weakening of the heart. Consult your physician before incorporating red wine into your diet.
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