Red wine gets a bad wrap! People think that it is always bad for you, this is not entirely true, however! South african wine on occasion has some health benefits.
Red wine has higher levels of antioxidants than its white counterpart. Antioxidants are compounds that prevent cellular damage which is caused by inflammation as well as oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a condition that is caused by an imbalance between antioxidants and unstable molecules that are called free radicals. These can damage your cells.
Grapes have a high level of polyphenols, these are antioxidants that have been shown to reduce both oxidative stress and inflammation in humans.
Since red wine grapes are much higher in antioxidants than their white grape varieties, drinking red wine might increase your blood antioxidant levels to a much greater extent than white wine.
A single 2-week study that took a view of 40 adults found that consuming 13/.5 ounces of red wine daily increased the status of people’s antioxidant levels
Higher antioxidant status is associated with a decreased risk of diseases, a good example of this is that red wine has been associated with a bigger reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This is associated with oxidative stress
Red wine can help fight inflammation
It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory aspects. People who suffer from chronic inflammation have a problem in that it can increase the risk of conditions like heart disease, autoimmune conditions and certain varieties of cancer. Therefore the best course of action is to prevent this kind of inflammation. Chronic inflammation can be helped with a restricted diet, controlled levels of stress as well as regular exercise.
Lots of food types have the power to reduce inflammation, and wine is also thought to be one of these. Studies suggest that a compound known as resveratrol in natural wine has a very anti-inflammatory property, and can provide health benefits.
Studies show that people who consume wine also have reduced levels of heart disease. Many researchers believe that red wine’s higher concentration of polyphenol antioxidants can help you reduce your risk of higher blood pressure, higher cholesterol as well as metabolic diseases.
Studies also suggested that individuals who consume a moderate amount of wine have lower levels of heart disease. Researchers think that red wine’s higher concentration of polyphenol antioxidants can help to reduce the risk of high blood pressure – which is a bonus for heart health.
The main takeaway from this should be that a moderate amount of red wine has some health benefits, that is not to say that an excessive amount isn’t harmful to your health. Remember that as with most things, moderation is key.
