Ever since the dawn of civilizations, people worldwide have been a fan of gulping fermented drinks. For example, there are historical artifacts in China dated 9,000 years ago that show residues of fermented rice and grapes. This tradition from the far East made all its way to the west, and 2,000 years later, the European winemaking enterprise was born.
Today, the most popular fermented drinks that people shop and collect are wines made from different varieties of grapes. It became so popular that it has become a part of many cultures of the world. Wine became a symbol of festivity, joy, and luxury. However, do you know that besides pairing it with your favorite meal, it also has health benefits?
Winemaking involves steps, like harvesting, crushing, pressing, fermentation, and clarification. Each of these steps is important to bring out the maximum amount of flavor, scent, and even nutrients to produce a wine of superb quality. Besides its luscious taste and fragrance, here are reasons why you should have a glass of red wine for your health.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
The leading cause of death in the United States are cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and hypertension. The body needs polyphenols to reduce the chances of these diseases. The most common form of polyphenols is wine. Thus, drinking a glass of wine a day lowers the risks from these diseases due to its cardioprotective benefits.
Prevents Vision Deterioration
Wine has a component called resveratrol that prevents deterioration in the eye muscle due to age, also called macular degeneration. This component also stops the out-of-control blood vessel growth in the eyes. Moreover, resveratrol helps prevent vision loss because of glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy.
Prevents Neurodegenerative Diseases
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia occur with age. Nevertheless, drinking a glass of red wine can prevent the development of these neuropathologies. Resveratrol in wines keeps the blood vessels open to supply the needed amount of glucose and oxygen in the brain, thus helping the brain function healthily.
Impedes the Growth of Cancer Cells
Drinking wine in moderate amounts also hinders the growth of cancer cells in the body. Aromatase is an enzyme that boosts the growth of tumors in the body. Red wines help by suppressing the aromatase activity inside a tumor. This impedes the development of cancer cells and prevents further growth of tumors in the body.
Lowers Risks of Liver Complications
Liver complications are known to be a result of alcohol abuse. However, unlike other alcohol, red wines reduce the risk of liver diseases if taken in moderate amounts. Red wine reduces oxidative stress and provides antioxidants in the liver. A glass of red wine decreases the chances of non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases or NAFLD.
Reduces Type 2 Diabetes Risks
Type 2 Diabetes is one of the most common forms of cardiometabolic diseases. Drinking red wine in moderate amounts reduces the risks of developing this disease. Red wine metabolizes glucose because of its ethanol content. It also improves insulin sensitivity in the body. Additionally, polyphenols in red wines regulate fat and blood sugar in the body.
Aids in Life Longevity
Resveratrol in red wine has many advantages to the body. Among its benefits is the increased production of the protein sirtuins. This protein shields the body from common diseases brought by aging. Moreover, it fights off free radicals in the body that damages cells and major organs. Daily wine consumption, with a proper diet, enables life longevity.
Boosts Bodily Defenses
Drinking a glass of red wine cures common cold and the simple flu. Red wine has ethanol, polyphenols, and antioxidants that prevent the growth of viruses in the body. In simpler terms, red wines are natural immunizing agents, boosting the body’s immune system.
Reduces the Chances of Depression
Depression is a severe mental health disorder that has affected millions nowadays. According to studies, people who drink red wine are less likely to develop depression. Specific components of red wines function as natural depressants that combat depression away. However, it is only beneficial to the body when taken in moderate amounts.
Prevents Obesity
Obesity is one of the most common problems in first world countries. However, drinking a glass of red wine once a day can prevent obesity. Red wines, such as the best wines from Gevrey Chambertin, contain antioxidants like quercetin, resveratrol, and epicatechin. These compounds reduce levels of cholesterol, thus, resulting in eventual weight loss.
Takeaway
Drinking red wine has health benefits for the body. However, it is only beneficial to the body if taken in moderate amounts. Too much red wine can result in alcohol abuse and toxicity that has adverse effects on the body. Controlling and limiting yourself when gulping your favorite red wine is essential. At the same time, a healthy diet with proper exercise can also help you.
