Aside from helping you relax after a long day at work, sipping wine can do much more than that with its surprising health benefits. According to standard Dietary Guidelines, a 5-ounce glass for women, and 2-ounces of glass for men is recommended. Here are more reasons why you should definitely go for an extra cup of classic, red wine.
- Anti-aging : The resveratrol is a compound which has anti-aging benefits and boosts production of proteins that protect the body from diseases caused by aging. This has been confirmed by researchers from Harvard Medical School. Another study from the Journals of Gerontology (2007) affirms this by stating “over a 29-year period Finnish wine drinkers had a 34 percent lower mortality rate than beer or spirit drinkers.”
- Memory boost : Another benefit of resveratrol is its ability to boost and improve memory. Researchers found out that participants who took resveratrol supplements showed faster performance in the hippocampus (the portion of the brain responsible for the formation of new memories, learning, and emotions); Thus, recording a significant increase in retention of words.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease : This has been a proven benefit of red wine. A study in 2007 suggests that “procyanidins”, which are found in red wine tannins, improves cardiovascular health. Researchers found out that wines produced in areas of southwest France and Sardini have particularly high concentrations of the compound. And in these places, people tend to live longer. The Harvard School of Public Health also published a study which suggests moderate drinkers are less likely to have a heart attack.
- Improves vision : Moderate drinkers were 32 percent less likely to develop cataract and other eye disease than non-drinkers, according to a study in Iceland
- Lowers risk of cancer : According to researchers at the University of Virginia, protein in grape skin can kill cancer cells. The protein, resveratrol, blocks development of a key protein that feeds cancer cells.
- Improves dental health : Recent research implies antioxidants (called polyphenols) found in wine slowsdown bacterial growth in the mouth and potentially help prevent cavities by eradicating the bacteria.
- Lowers cholesterol : The Tempranillo and Rioja (high fiber), may lower cholesterol levels. To prove this, participants were given a grape supplement found in red wine saw a 9 percent drop in bad cholesterol that can clog arteries (LDL). Results? Those with established high cholesterol experienced a 12 percent drop.
- Helps prevent common cold : Red wine is full of antioxidants. Those who drank more than 14 glasses of wine per week were 40 percent less likely to experience a bout of the common cold.