Red Wine - What Do the French Know?

In moderation, red wine has been reported to facilitate improvement in health through a number of different mechanisms. Studies have indicated it's positive effects on heart disease and cancer. One of the group of plant compounds, called polyphenols, are thought to be largely responsible for the beneficial actions in red wine. This compound, called resveratrol, has been researched for it's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It has been found to reduce the breakdown of LDL (bad cholesterol), inhibit platelet binding which can lead to blood clots and may offer protection against atherogenesis and heart disease. In addition, several cell culture and animal studies have shown that this substance inhibits cancer cell replication by initiating cell death and by exerting antiestrogenic effects.

So while studies look promising for both heart health and cancer, does this justify even moderate alcohol consumption? The answer to this question is generally no. Even moderate consumption defined as 1 drink for women and 2 drinks for men per day, is associated with elevated cancer risk. However, given the ever emerging research on resveratrol, strong arguments can be made for efforts to add this to your daily diet and the serving size of 5 ounces should be reconsidered. A 3 ounce serving several days a week rather than everyday may be a better approach. The highest concentration is found in red wine, which results from the long fermentation in grape skins, which is where the resveratrol is found. However, non-alcoholic sources which include grapes, peanuts, mulberries, spruce, eucalyptus, blueberries and cranberries are good choices to add to a balanced diet. At present the information on supplementation is scant, and the effects of high doses are not well understood. So for now, enjoy these healthful foods which can add variety and flare to your diet and maybe much more!