You have probably heard before that red wine is good for your heart. But… is it?
Alcohol and antioxidants, specifically resveratrol, in red wine may be protective for your heart.
- It increases your good cholesterol levels,
- Reduces your bad cholesterol, and
- Prevents damage to your arteries.
So far so good, but let’s look at this more closely…
Below is some important information that you need to know when choosing to drink red wine on a regular basis:
- First of all, people who do not drink alcohol should not start just because they want to avoid developing heart disease.
- You may also get good amounts of resveratrol by eating dark skinned grapes, blueberries and cranberries often. If you choose to drink red wine, the best sources for flavonoids are Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Petit Syrah and Pinot Noir.
- Most research on resveratrol has been done in animals, not people! A person would have to drink very large amounts of red wine to have the same benefits that were demonstrated in animals.
- Moderate amounts of red wine may benefit your heart. Remember that a serving of wine is 4oz, and moderation means no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 for women.
- In addition, drinking too much increases your risk of high blood pressure, high triglycerides (which could lead to type 2 diabetes), liver damage, obesity, cancer, and other problems. It may also weaken your heart muscle. You should avoid alcohol if you already have a weakened heart muscle, heart failure, or if you take aspirin.
Instead of red wine, focus on the most effective ways to prevent heart disease, including:
- Control your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Exercise
- Follow a healthy diet
- Do not smoke
- Maintain your ideal body weight.
Hey, don’t get me wrong! I love my red wine! But I only drink occasionally and as a way of relaxation, not as a tool to prevent heart disease.
Is red wine good for my heart or not?
