In ancient times, the Egyptians used red wine was used in medicine to help treat a number of health conditions. As it turns out, they were onto something. Studies have shown that the benefits of red wine include the ability to boost heart health, improve cholesterol levels, naturally manage diabetes and help prevent cognitive decline.
Benefits of Red Wine
1. Boosts Heart Health
Benefits of red wine include improved heart health. Red wine contains polyphenols, resveratrol and quercetin, which have cardioprotective properties. Research has shown that the antioxidants in ed wine can help slow the progression of arteriosclerosis by reducing the build of cholesterol and plaque in the artery walls. Thanks to resveratrol, benefits of red wine also include the ability to protect the heart cells from tissue damage, decrease triglycerides and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. (1)
2. Improves Cholesterol
Benefits of red wine include the ability to naturally reduce cholesterol levels. According to a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, wine consumption is associated with a significant increase in HDL cholesterol and a decrease in LDL cholesterol levels.
3. Fights Free Radical Damage
Benefits of red wine include the ability to protect the body from free radical damage. Free radicals can cause damage to the cells that leads to cancer, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases. The powerful antioxidants in red wine help to repair damage caused by oxidative stress and reduce the risk of many serious health conditions. Thanks to these antioxidants, benefits of red wine also include the ability to reduce inflammation in the body. (2)
4. Helps Manage Diabetes
Research has shown that benefits of red wine include the ability to naturally manage diabetes. Red wine is able to slow the passage of glucose through the body, which can help prevent spikes in blood sugar. Studies suggest that when consumed in moderation, red wine may be a beneficial addition to a diabetic diet. (3)
5. Fights Obesity
Health benefits of red wine include the ability to help fight obesity and unwanted weight gain. Grapes, along with blueberries and passionfruit, contain a compound called piceatannol. This compound has the ability to block the growth of immature fat cells. Research has shown that piceatannol can help fight obesity and weight gain by destroying fat cells before they fully develop. It works by binding to the insulin receptors found in fat cells and blocking their ability to activate genes that lead to fat formation.
6. Helps Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
Research has shown that benefits of red wine include the ability to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Red wine is commonly included in the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with a significantly lower risk of cognitive impairment. Studies have shown that the resveratrol in red wine works as an Alzheimer’s treatment by slowing the progression of dementia. It works by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, while acting as a neuroprotectant. (4)