Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, would be very pleased. Americans are drinking more wine than ever, according to the Wine Institute. The news that wine drinking may promote heart health has encouraged Americans to lift their glasses in a toast to health, although some researchers believe drinking purple grape juice or eating whole red or purple grapes delivers the same benefits, the Mayo Clinic reports.
Calories in Wine
A 5 oz. serving of red or white table wine typically has 121 to 125 calories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Nutrient Database. Dessert wines are higher in calories: a 3.5 oz. glass of dry dessert wine contains 157 calories, and a 3.5 oz. glass of sweet dessert wine has 165 calories. Non-alcoholic wine contains only 10 calories for a 5 oz. serving.
Cholesterol-Free & Cholesterol-Boosting
Wine is cholesterol-free, which is good news for those watching their cholesterol levels. Both red wine and red and purple grape juice have been found to help reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic. The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that some studies show moderate alcohol use may increase HDL ("good") cholesterol, although the association recommends grape juice, regular exercise and possibly niacin supplements rather than wine drinking to achieve higher HDL levels.
Bottomless Cup
While friends and waiters like to refill wine glasses to keep the party lively, it is a good idea to keep track of the number of pours. Two 5 oz. glasses of wine contains 250 calories, and three glasses has 375 calories. Another reason to put your hand over the top of the glass before a second or third pour: The AHA recommends that those who drink should consume an average of only 4 oz. per day for women and 4 to 8 oz. per day for men.
Non-Alcoholic Wine
Non-alcoholic wine has very few calories--only 2 per ounce. It does not carry the risks the AHA associates with drinking too much alcohol, including alcohol dependence, high blood pressure, obesity and stroke.
Cabernet is the Winner
Of all wine varieties, a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon delivers the highest concentration of flavonoids, the antioxidants believed to boost good cholesterol, decrease bad cholesterol and reduce blood clotting. Petite Syrah and Pinot Noir are close behind.
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