Like I said in an earlier post, I have recently been taking note of the health benefits of almost everything I eat. And last week at a party, we were given options of what to drink; we were offered beer, fruit juice and red wine! A good number of people went for the beer, a few went for the fruit juice, some took the both and just 3 asked for the Red Wine. I had gone for the fruit juice so I was curious to know why those three settled for the red wine.
When our drinks arrived, I asked them why they chose red wine, and they simply told me it is healthier than the other options!
Shocked, I made up my mind to check out the health benefits.
Here is what I found out:
1. It reduces the risk of cancer:
Studies have shown that regular drinkers of red wine have a reduced risk of developing some forms of cancer.
In one study of 2,000 people, it was found that individuals who drank moderate amounts of red wine were 45% less likely to develop cancer of the colon.
2. It protects you against heart disease:
Red wine contains tannins called procyanidins, which can help protect you against heart disease. The wine also contains an antioxidant known as resveratrol, which is known to reduce the amount of fat that accumulates in the arteries.
3. It provides protection against stomach disorders:
Another cool benefit of drinking red wine is that it provides protection against various stomach disorders. Just half a glass of red wine has also been shown to protect you against the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers and gastritis. It can also provide protection against some types of food poisoning.
4. It prevents tooth decay:
Drinking red wine actually hardens the tooth enamel and so prevents tooth decay. The Polyphenols that are found in red wine are also good for preventing gum disease and reducing gum inflammation.
5. It can stop you from catching a cold:
A regular glass of red wine can even keep the cold at bay. In a study that was published by the American Journal of Epidemiology, it was suggested that people who do drink red wine are nearly 45% less likely to catch a cold.
6. It strengthens the bones:
Women, who drink occasionally, have higher bone density than those who do not. It is believed that it increases the levels of oestrogen in the body, which slows down the breakdown of old bone.
7. It improves the memory:
Studies have also shown that red wine can improve the memory and delay the onset of dementia. A 2009 survey found that people who drank up to two glasses of red wine a day had a nearly 40% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
8. It can keep you slim:
Benefits of drinking red wine also include easier weight control. People who drink red wine regularly have been found to have less abdominal fat around their waists. A moderate amount of alcohol gives a boost to your metabolism and makes your body burn more calories for up to ninety minutes after you have finished your drink.
9. It can reduce the risk of developing type 2 Diabetes:
It has long been recognised that excessive alcohol consumption can cause diabetes, but a study completed in Amsterdam found that moderate drinkers of red wine were 30% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than abstainers.
10. It is good for your skin:
Benefits of drinking red wine also include anti-ageing. The anti-oxidants that are found in red wine can also be good for your skin. In moderation, red wine can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and even slow down the effect of ageing on the skin.
