wine • health • study • Health & Wellness • 2 min read • Feb 19, 2014 12:00:00 AM • Written by: Kat Smith
In case you don’t have it marked on your calendar, today is National Drink Wine Day! Celebrated every February 18th, the organization behind the “holiday” states that today is all about “spreading love and celebrating the health benefits of wine.”
So pour yourself a glass of vino and drink up – you’re likely to experience any number of these health benefits:
A Happy Heart
Red wine appears to have more heart-healthy benefits than other types of alcoholic beverages, which could be attributed to the presence of antioxidants, such as flavonoids or a substance called resveratrol. Some research indicates that resveratrol may help reduce “bad” cholesterol, prevent damage to blood vessels and hinder the formation of blood clots.
Breathe Easier
Are you more of a fan of white wine? A recent study found that consuming wine – especially white – seemed to improve lung health. The researchers credit the antioxidants found in both red and white, but discovered a stronger relationship between white wine and healthy lungs.
Cut Cataracts
More than half of all Americans over the age of 65 have cataracts, but an Icelandic study indicates that moderate drinkers are 32 percent less likely to develop cataracts than nondrinkers. Even better news? If wine is your beverage of choice you are 42 percent less likely to get cataracts than those who choose beer.
Live Longer
According to a Finnish study, wine drinkers have a 34 percent lower mortality rate when compared to beer or spirit drinkers. Now that’s something to toast to!
Just be mindful of overindulgence, these health benefits come from moderate wine consumption (which equates to one or two four-ounce glasses a day according to the American Heart Association.)
