Surprising Health Benefits of Drinking Wine

Wine is an alcoholic beverage that’s easy for many of us to love. The thought of wine having some health benefits makes that glass of vino more enjoyable. Below are a few possible health benefits associated with moderate wine consumption:

Supports=heart health – It is no secret that wine may provide some heart health benefits. One of the antioxidants found in wine is Resveratrol, which is the one thought to have beneficial effects. It is found in the dark skin of grapes, and this is why red wine is thought to have more heart benefits than white.
Lowers blood sugars- Red wine is abundant in polyphenols. The polyphenols in wine interact with cells involved with the regulation of blood sugar. Enjoying a small glass of wine with your largest meal may help lower your blood glucose levels.

Reduces stress – Moderate wine drinkers tend to have less stress in their lives. Studies have found there is an association between moderate alcohol intake and lower levels of depression and anxiety.

Improves sleep – While most research proves that drinking alcohol can interfere with sleep, some personalities may find a small glass of wine relaxing. Clearing your anxious mind before sleep may help you drift into a deeper sleep pattern leading to better quality nightly sleep.

However, there is a disclaimer. Drinking every day can be a slippery slope that a lot of people can’t safely navigate. While the news about red wine might sound great, doctors are cautious about encouraging anyone to start drinking alcohol especially if you have a family history of alcohol abuse. Too much alcohol can have many harmful effects on your body.

The health benefits of drinking wine come from moderate consumption, defined by the American Heart Association as one to two four-ounce glasses a day. Be sure to drink in moderation to avoid turning these benefits into dangers. One daily glass of wine is recommended for women and one to two for men. Keep in mind, the sweeter the wine, the more sugar. It is important to remind you (sorry to be a party pooper) that sugar is our enemy when it comes to weight gain. So if you do choose to drink wine, make sure it fits safely into your calorie budget for weight maintenance.

Julie Fortenberry is a registered dietitian at Touro Infirmary. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Southern Mississippi. Julie believes that lifestyle changes and wholesome nutrition are obtainable, and brings real-life understanding to wellness and nutritional counseling.