Guide To Antioxidants Home » Resveratrol » Red Wine
If you’ve been hearing the buzz in the news lately you know that the antioxidants in red wine appear to be something that’s actually good for you.
There’s a specific component in wine, namely polyphenol, that has an excellent antioxidant quality. Research shows that polyphenols may also help fight the risk of cancer and other diseases.
Polyphenol 101 – it’s all in the skin:
It’s not the meat of the grapes that provides polyphenols, it’s the grape’s skin that does it. When red wine gets brewed those compounds are released complete with their ability to support the immune system. How? These components fight free radicals that cause oxidation – the main reason for cell breakdown. While red grapes aren’t the only things that include antioxidants, it certainly explains why wine at dinner has often made for longer life spans and healthier living in various regions around the world.
Another ingredient in wine is Resveratrol. This helps protect grapes from infections and fungus. That protective element is transferred into the wine, thereby providing more support to your immune system.
Finally there’s the flavonoids in wine, that also have antioxidant qualities. While some beers may have these, red wine has a higher percentage because of the difference in ingredients and processing.
Science and Wine
The interest in wine among scientists has lead to several tests including to see how it may (or may not ) affect skin cancer, breast cancer, and blood disorders. Overall the studies have been very positive, indicating that red wine in moderation may divert the start of these conditions or slow their progression. If pre-existing. Men in particular seem to benefit here. Just four ounces of wine a week lowers the risk of prostate cancer upward of 60 percent.
Some Caution:
While the antioxidants in wine show great promise, this field of study is still emerging. Obviously over-consumption of wine isn’t healthy. Additionally a lot more study is currently being conducted to see just how much wine it takes to build up an antioxidant level that’s truly healthy and supportive for wellness.
With this in mind, if you plan on enjoying a red wine as part of your dietary regiment, remember that it, alone, isn’t a cure-all, nor is it a substitute for proper medical care. While red wine is heart healthy, and does seem to increase “good cholesterol” some of the research done thus far has produced contrary results.
What we do know is that the alcohol in red wine helps reduce blood clot formations and also prevents damaged arteries. Having said that, the results haven’t been so staggering as to have recommendations from the American Heart Association. With that in mind, a person certainly shouldn’t start drinking just to endeavor cancer prevention or heart disease.
How much is too Much?
The suggested amount for moderate drinking for health reasons is 5 ounces of wine a day for women, 10 ounces a day for men. The reason for the difference has to do with the way men and women metabolize alcohol (it gets into a woman’s bloodstream much faster) and the general weight variance between genders.
Make your Own!
Rather than wondering about the ingredients in store-bought wine, it’s perfectly legal and relatively inexpensive to brew your own wine for personal consumption in the US. The basic ingredient list includes organic grapes, honey (or sugar), filtered water, and brewing yeast (which is not to be confused with baking yeast). The only down-side of making your own is waiting for it to be ready (but you could be drinking grape juice in the meanwhile!).
Conclusion:
The antioxidants in wine appear to be good for us, but only if we use them wisely. Don’t over-consume this beverage, and make sure you’re following other smart guidelines for your health.
Yes, all those things mother taught really had a lot of common sense value. Eat well-balanced meals that have rich antioxidant ingredients. Get plenty of rest, and exercise. These foundations create the cornerstone of a long life filled with energy and well-being.
Leave Red Wine, Go to Guide to Antioxidants Home
