The flavinoid antioxidant proanthocyanidin is also found in the skin of red grapes as it is in tomatoes and red peppers. Antioxidants help bond and neutralize free radical oxygen isotopes in the body. These free radicals are directly linked to the aging process and, to an extent, the formation of cancerous tissues. Thus the occasional glass of red wine can help you stay younger looking and more healthy.
For those who have to watch their intake of carbohydrates and calories, a glass of red wine contains less than even a single slice of bread. Wine is also a great aid in the more complete digestion of food and helps break down various nutrients into a more absorbable form. Many table wines are designed especially for this benefit and are made with a lower than average alcohol content.
Wine has a long history of health benefits and health uses, sometimes being historically used as medication, replacements for contaminated water, used as an antiseptic, etc. There are tablets from the Egyptian empire that talk about how to make wine and the benefits that might come with drinking the alcoholic drink. Modern medicine and science has done many studies on the effects and benefits of having an occasional glass of wine on one’s body and health and over time popular opinions on the matters have changed as facts as changed. The FDA has changed its official stance from saying that wine has no net benefit to opening up to the possibility. There is still a lot of research being done on the matter and as new facts come out the benefits vs. negatives of wine might change or tilt to one side or another which could again cause a shift in public and scientific opinion.
It should be noted however that during pregnancy all alcoholic beverages even wine should be avoided. It does take a much higher alcohol intake than the occasional glass of wine produces to develop fetal alcohol syndrome and its resultant increase in various birth defects. However, as little as three absolute ounces of alcohol a day can still produce lesser fetal defects and a greater chance of mental retardation in the growing child.
Wine as with any other alcoholic drink needs to be consumed responsibly and in moderation as too much can certainly have some very negative effects on not only one’s body, but their lives and the people around them. Before drinking, everyone should know their limits based on their weight and be safe about where and when they drink. They should of course never drink when drinking either.
For more on the health benefits of various juices and drinks check out the drink health benefits category on this blog.