Wine lovers usually have a preference of either white or red. If you have made a resolution to count your calories and improve your health, you may be wondering which wine offers the most health benefits. Although red wine has been praised for its heart healthy benefits, white wine is not without its beneficial aspects as well.
Features
White wines are mostly made of white grapes; they are made without skins or seeds. The skins are separated from the juice and yeast is added for fermentation. White wines have a light, crisp, fruity flavor and aroma. Red wine is made from the darker red and black grapes. The crushed grapes (with their skins) are fermented for one to two weeks. Red wines have a richer flavor. According to AmoLife.com, tannins (naturally occurring compounds found in the skin of grapes) are the main difference between red and white wines. Tannins contribute to the color and flavor of reds.
Health Benefits
Red wine is a plentiful source of powerful antioxidants, which may help prevent heart disease by raising good cholesterol levels and protecting the arteries from damage. According to the Mayo Clinic, research studies regarding the benefits of red wine in preventing heart disease have had mixed results. The evidence still isn't clear in 2009 whether red wine has more heart benefits than white wine or even beer.
Reservatrol
The Mayo Clinic states that reservatrol (a powerful antioxidant found in grapes) may be the key ingredient in red wine that helps prevent damage to blood vessels, bad cholesterol and blood clots. Since grapes for red wines are fermented longer (and with the skins), red wine contains more reservatrol.
Calories
WineIntro.com lists the caloric content for wine, according to the United States Department of Agriculture, as 74 calories for a 3 to 5 ounce glass of red wine, 70 calories for the same size glass of white wine and 73 calories for a 3 to 5 ounce glass of rose wine. White wines usually contain slightly fewer calories than red wines, but this can vary in both reds and whites.
Moderation
Whether you choose to drink red wine or white is a matter of preference. Although there may be benefits to drinking wine, you should do so in moderation. The risks of drinking too much of any alcoholic beverage can easily outweigh the good. The Mayo Clinic states that moderation is defined as two drinks per day for men and one drink for women.
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