A more personal summary

Wine, in moderation has long been known to have health benefits – both physical and emotional. As our lives become so much busier one forgets that wine is used by most of us as a social “gatherer” – a reason to stop, slow down , enjoy friends company and relax – an extremely healthy destressor. – whether it is red or white wine.

The “French Paradox” and indeed the old adage of “an apple a day” has lead to the discovery of a number of chemicals that help to explain the health benefits. Most of the healthy chemicals are in the grape skins which is why most studies relate to red wine where the wine (juice) and the skins are in contact for a long period. Flavenoids and Resveratrol from red wine skins inhibit the blood’s stickiness and sluggishness and slow down the damaging cellular oxidation to protect the heart and brain blood vessels from both the inherited and natural ageing effects of “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis). Moderate alcohol consumption slows the onset of memory loss and dementias – including Alzheimers. These chemicals also increase the good cholesterol – HDL and decrease the bad cholesterol – LDL especially if wine is taken with food at the evening meal.

Recent scientific studies also show a decreased incidence +/- a slower progression of lung, breast, prostate, oral, bowel, skin and liver cancers – although excessive alcohol consumption across the board (probably in conjunction with a diet poor in folate and calcium) has been linked with an increased incidence of breast cancer. The “antioxidant” effect mops up the harmful molecules called “free radicals” which are linked to cancer.

Flavenoids also reduce the inflammatory effects in chronic lung diseases such as COPD and bronchiectasis. Other recent studies support the decreased incidence of osteoporosis in wine drinkers noting an increase in bone mineral density. Some red grapes also have high concentrations of Melatonin which can lead to better sleep patters and lessen jet lag. Several studies have linked alcohol with decreasing the bacteria in the stomach which have recently been associated with stomach ulcers. This is also true for common “food poisoning” which is less common in those who drink wine with their meals.

Moderate drinking in most studies is considered 2 glasses per day for women and 3 glasses per day for men. Cheers/Salute/Enjoy