Health in wine: The therapeutic effects of wine consumption

The health effects of wine continue to intrigue scientists today, leading to ongoing research in this area. One of the most well-known studies related to this topic is associated with France and is aptly named the French paradox. It's a common fact that in most developed countries, there is a high rate of cardiovascular mortality due to diets rich in saturated fats and cholesterol. However, France stands out among developed countries like Great Britain, the United States, or the Netherlands, with significantly lower numbers of cardiovascular deaths. The reason for this difference remained unknown for a long time, but it was recently discovered that the moderate consumption of quality red wine by the French could be behind these lower figures.

The weekly consumption of red wine, due to the flavonoids found in the liquid, has antioxidant properties. It also aids blood flow in the vessels, easing the work of the heart. Additionally, wine consumption can reduce the amount of lipoprotein in the blood, which is often responsible for deposits and blood clots. This antioxidant effect was also confirmed in a recent study by the Danish Epidemiology Center, which found that people who consume red wine moderately but regularly have a 50% lower chance of suffering a heart attack or stroke, thanks to the antioxidant effects of the wine.

The antioxidant content of wine is also “responsible” for healthier skin in those who consume wine moderately. These substances prevent the spread of bacteria responsible for acne, rejuvenate the skin, increase its elasticity, and maintain its cleanliness and radiance. Thanks to its other beneficial compounds (resveratrol, anthocyanins, gallic acids), wine has also proven effective in preventing other diseases. For example, it may be suitable for reducing blood pressure (again, due to its beneficial effects on the vessels) and it stimulates fat metabolism.

Resveratrol, mentioned earlier, might also be responsible for preventing the development of Alzheimer's disease through wine consumption. As this substance helps keep blood vessels open, it indirectly supports the movement of oxygen and glucose to the brain, ensuring our brain cells get air and energy quickly and easily. Resveratrol is also credited with having a positive effect on our vision by inhibiting the aging of eye muscles. It is also attributed to the life-extending effect of wine, as such antioxidants help our body fight against free radicals. Some studies suggest that resveratrol increases the activity of a protein called sirtuin, which has immune-boosting and anti-aging effects.

Even before the coronavirus pandemic, it was a well-known fact that moderate wine consumption strengthens the immune system. Ethanol and the alcohol found in wine enhance the effects of vaccines and are also attributed antiviral properties. According to research conducted in this area, wine drinking helps our body defend against about two hundred viruses, highlighting again the high flavonoid content of red wines, which offers excellent defense against viral attacks.

Red wine consumption also offers additional benefits for female consumers, as its moderate use reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, a common disease among women, involves the pathological decrease of bone material, while the remaining bone structure and distribution in the body remain regular. The thinning of the bones associated with osteoporosis leads to them breaking more easily. Researchers from the University of East Anglia and King’s College, in their research conducted ten years ago, compared the dietary habits of twins and found that modest alcohol consumption strengthens bone density.

From the listed properties, it is evident that moderate, quality wine consumption can have numerous positive effects on our bodies, ranging from the now cardinal antiviral effect to the vasodilation effect on the heart and circulatory system