Is a Glass of Wine a Day Heart-Healthy?
“One should not assume wine consumption is a healthy habit,” notes a cardiovascular expert. Alcohol consumption is associated with high blood pressure, liver disease, and issues with digestion, mental well-being, and immunity, as well as oncological diseases.
Possible Cardiovascular Upsides
That said, studies have shown that moderate wine consumption could have certain minor advantages for your cardiovascular system, according to experts. This research suggests wine can help reduce “bad” cholesterol – which may reduce the likelihood of heart disease, kidney problems and cerebrovascular accident.
Wine is not a treatment. I discourage the idea that poor daily eating can be offset by consuming wine.
This is due to substances that have properties which dilate vessels and reduce swelling, aiding vessels in remaining dilated and supple. Additionally, red wine includes antioxidant compounds such as the antioxidant resveratrol, found in the skin of grapes, which may additionally bolster cardiovascular health.
Significant Drawbacks and Cautions
However, significant warnings exist. A global health authority has released findings reporting that any intake of alcohol carries risk; the benefits of wine for the heart are surpassed by it being a known cancer-causing agent, in the same category as asbestos and tobacco.
Other foods – such as berries and grapes offer similar benefits to wine free from such detrimental impacts.
Advice for Responsible Consumption
“I would not advise a teetotaler to begin drinking,” notes an expert. But it’s also unrealistic to expect everyone who now drinks to go teetotal, commenting: “The crucial factor is moderation. Be prudent. Drinks like beer and spirits contain significant sugar and calories and can damage the liver.”
He recommends consuming no more than 20 small glasses of wine a month. Another major heart charity recommends not drinking more than 14 units per week of alcoholic drinks (six medium glasses of wine).
The core message is: Wine should not be viewed as a health supplement. Proper nutrition and positive life choices are the proven foundations for long-term heart health.
