Culled
…If you’re looking for the potential health benefits of antioxidants, there are lots of sources available that are healthier and cheaper
First off, let’s go through what people say about alcohol in red wine and why it may be beneficial to our health. At the basest level, some studies have shown that alcohol can improve heart health by increasing levels of good cholesterol. Unfortunately, whatever possible benefit alcohol may cause is possibly negated
by the numerous drawbacks of alcohol consumption, like weight gain and increased cancer risk. Many common beliefs about alcohol, such as how it can help you sleep are apocryphal.
The primary reason for all the focus on red wine, though, isn’t the alcohol content; it’s the antioxidants
Antioxidants really are healthy, and red wine in particular is pretty antioxidant rich. The reason they are present in red wine more than elsewhere has to do with grapes and how red wine is made.
The particular antioxidant most present in red wine, known as resveratrol, is a result of the skins of wine grapes being left in the fermenting wine longer than white wine. That said, the alcohol probably still overrides the benefits that would be otherwise present.
Why you can still drink red wine
Prohibition wasn’t repealed for nothing! There are two important parts of drinking red wine, and alcohol in general:
1. Drink in moderation. A glass here or there isn’t going to make a big difference in your progression towards your health goals, but try to contain it.
2. Don’t have any illusions about drinking. Alcohol is simply not good for you, and that includes red wine.
If you’re looking for the potential health benefits of antioxidants, there are lots of sources available that are healthier and cheaper than wine.
Red grapes themselves contain resveratrol, as do:
- Blueberries
- Cranberries
- Peanuts
- Pistachios
- Dark chocolate; though chocolate is not always healthy particularly in excess.
Basically, you’re better off with some fruits and nuts than wine if you are looking for health benefits. Of course, a little bit of both can make a nice digestif.
