We often hear that red wine is healthy for the heart, blood vessels, maintaining stable blood pressure and well-being. It is believed that this drink has an antioxidant effect, in moderate quantities it stabilizes the level of “good” cholesterol and protects the arteries from damage, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. No matter how encouraging the stories about the beneficial properties of red wine in comparison with other alcohol are, doctors do not encourage drinking alcohol: if you slightly exceed the permissible limit, all the benefits can easily be turned into harm. However, a glass of wine with dinner is considered acceptable. We decided to figure out what it can give, besides a pleasant taste and high spirits, and whether red has any advantages over other wines.

Let's say right away: it is difficult to give a definite answer about the benefits of wine. Science does not yet have enough convincing data to prove a cause-and-effect relationship between moderate consumption of this drink and improved health. The opinion about the advantages of wine over other alcohol, as well as the greater benefits of red compared to white, is based on the following. Wine contains polyphenols, which may have an antioxidant effect and have a beneficial effect on the condition of the heart vessels. Particular attention is paid to resveratrol, contained in grape skins. Because red wine requires longer fermentation to produce, it (especially pinot noir, shiraz and burgundy) actually contains more resveratrol than white wine.

According to some studies, resveratrol may prevent vascular damage, reduce levels of “bad” cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein), reduce blood clots and have anti-inflammatory effects, maintain a healthy heart rate and even have a beneficial effect on bone strength. About ten years ago, information spread that this substance even helps to slightly reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, but these data have already been questioned. Most studies on the effects of wine and its antioxidant content have been conducted on animals, and there have been no large-scale clinical trials to confirm the results in humans. Studies in mice have shown that resveratrol may reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes (two major risk factors for heart disease), and studies in pigs suggest that resveratrol may improve the body's ability to metabolize insulin.

It is unknown whether the same effects are achieved in humans, but in any case, to obtain the appropriate dose of resveratrol in wine equivalent, a person would need to drink more than 1,000 liters of red powder daily. In the form of dietary supplements, this substance is not always well absorbed by the human body - however, doctors do not see any harm in their use for preventive purposes. But a recent study by Danish scientists found that resveratrol may reduce the heart benefits of exercise in older men.

Lovers of white wine claim that it has no less beneficial properties. They supposedly lie in another polyphenol - caffeic acid, contained in both white and red wine in approximately equal quantities (in fairness, we note that caffeic acid is found in all plants). According to studies by Italian biologists and physicians on mice and human blood vessel cells grown in the laboratory, caffeic acid in very low doses actually stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which lowers blood pressure, protects the myocardium from ischemia, and reduces the risk of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. So, perhaps, there are very real benefits from a glass of wine - in this case, it doesn’t matter what color it is.

Most doctors agree that a healthy amount of wine is no more than one glass of wine per day for women.

It is important to know that the effect of antioxidants in wine lasts a short time after consumption, and regular libations can develop into addiction: if instead of one glass at dinner, three are emptied, there is reason to think about it. Most doctors agree that the healthy norm is no more than one glass (150 grams) per day for women of any age and men over 65, and for other men the norm reaches two glasses. This difference is due to the fact that the average man weighs more and has more of the enzyme that breaks down alcohol. In order not to harm yourself, it is important to know not only your norm, but also the technique for producing the wine you choose: avoid drinks made from “dry wine material” and wines of questionable production (you can read about how to choose wine).

Many people get headaches from red wine. In some cases, this may be due to pressure in the blood vessels, but a number of researchers believe that sulfur dioxide causes headaches. It can get into the drink in a number of ways: when winemakers treat vineyards and winery equipment with it to combat fungi, as well as naturally through the roots of the vine from the soil or during fermentation from yeast. In the latter case, the natural concentration of sulfur oxide is not enough to stabilize the wine, so manufacturers add a preservative. In some countries, such as the USA, the content of sulfur dioxide must be indicated on the packaging, but if there is no information, it does not mean that the substance is not in the drink.

South African wine companies recently proposed a unique way out of the situation. According to their new technique, when making red wine (in particular, Merlot), traditional preservatives like sulfur dioxide, which are associated not only with ordinary headaches, but also with allergies and migraines, are replaced with extracts of rooibos and honeybush: they retain the aroma of the wine well and themselves themselves rich in antioxidants. True, it is still difficult to say how much of this is useful and how much is marketing.

When choosing the lesser evil, you should pay attention to the nutritional value of the wine: we do not advise scrupulously, but for those who monitor their physical fitness, it would not hurt to be aware of their approximate. According to the British resource DrinkAware, a glass of red wine can contain as many calories as a serving of ice cream, but their number is largely determined by the strength (there are seven calories per gram of alcohol). The nutritional value of a glass of dry rosé can reach 200 calories, but lighter champagne (a glass of white brut usually has about 90 calories). Dessert wines with 250 to 275 calories are best avoided: chocolate brownie may be less harmful than sweet alcohol. Alcohol is not a medicine, therefore, when deciding to drink, you should not look for excuses for its health benefits.

“In vino veritas!” - the ancient Romans exclaimed, and this gives reason to think that people already knew about the beneficial properties of wine. Later, with the development of science, opinions were divided, and heated debates are still ongoing. So is there any benefit from wine, and if so, which wine is healthier for the body and how to drink it?

The healthiest drink

This is exactly how the famous French microbiologist Louis Pasteur spoke about wine. Should we believe the eminent scientist? Let's figure it out.

Probably everyone knows how wine is made: it is obtained by complete or partial fermentation of grape juice. Interestingly, this seemingly simple drink actually has a complex composition that includes more than 500 chemicals. So, any wine consists of:

• water , passing from grapes;
• sugars , which determine whether the wine will be dry, sweet or semi-sweet;
• ethanol – the main alcohol included in the wine;
• acids : vinegar, wine, apple, etc.;
• tannins , which cause an astringent sensation in the mouth;
• aromatic substances , which give wine taste and aroma;
• vitamins groups B, C and P;
• mineral complex , including iron, potassium, etc.

The ratio of these substances in wine depends on the production method, grape variety and aging time. In any case, even a cursory glance at the composition is enough for the health benefits of wine to become obvious.

A cure for all diseases...

...except for alcoholism. This is roughly what the French proverb sounds like, loosely translated, and it surprisingly accurately reflects the essence of wine. If you do not abuse this drink, its beneficial properties will serve your health well. So, for example, wine:

• saturates the body with vitamins and other useful substances, especially during vitamin deficiency;
• according to some reports, with the help of resveratrol slows down tumor growth;
• keeps the body in good shape;
• using polyphenols regulates blood sugar levels, thereby preventing the occurrence of diabetes;
• hot with spices helps with bronchitis, pneumonia and other pulmonary diseases;
• relieves stress And struggles with insomnia;
• helps digest heavy foods, including fats, so it is recommended to take it before lunch or dinner.

Opinion about this alcoholic drink as a health product is still divided. Supporters cite as arguments facts about the healing properties of wine, which are known to science. Dry Cahors, for example, is used in church rituals of communion; it is able to strengthen blood vessels and fight heart pathologies. Opponents - representatives of official medicine - are wary of this type of therapy, but admit that some people can benefit from drinking a little wine.

Which wine is good for health?

The positive qualities of the drink largely depend on the production method and the components of the drink. Red wine is made from a dark grape variety, which is called “purple” in wine regions. It needs to be collected at a certain time of the year (each variety has its own) so that the ratio of acids and sugars in the berries on the vine is at the required level. Only by following these rules will you get the desired result.

In Spain and Italy, the collection period is called "vendemmia" or "vendimia". In the southern hemisphere, the harvest is harvested from February to April, and in the northern hemisphere, from July to October. There are special machines that collect grapes, but to obtain elite varieties of wine, everything is still done by hand, carefully picking each berry. The harvest is then macerated and pressed to produce a must that goes through the following steps:

• fermentation;
• filtering;
• bottling.

Chemical composition

The beneficial properties of wine appear only with moderate consumption. The drink is high in calories and is easily absorbed by the body. One liter of dry wine contains 700 kcal. Dessert wines containing sugar contain more calories. Among the most valuable substances in this alcohol, valuable for the body and having biocatalytic properties, are organic acids. It also contains:

• compound of nitrogen and phosphorus;
• pectin substances;
• glycerol;
• sugar;
• potassium salts;
• iron;
• magnesium;
• calcium;
• vitamins;
• radioactive substances;
• rare elements.

It has been proven that tartaric acids have high bactericidal properties. Organic acids in wine are present in a bound or free state, and mineral acids are present in slightly smaller quantities. In addition to the listed organic components (succinic, acetic, malolactic, tartaric acid), wine contains more than 20 amino acids that are beneficial for the health of the human body. The composition contains a lot of amine nitrogen (almost 245 mg/l), which corresponds to the daily minimum.

Strength and sweetness of wine

Before drinking any alcohol, you should know its strength, and in the case of wine, also its sweetness. This is necessary for all people who would like to understand the varieties and consciously choose a drink. The alcohol content is measured as a percentage of the total volume of liquid. Each variety has its own characteristics:

• sherry – up to 24%;
• dry and semi-dry – 9–12%;
• fortified and dessert – 15–18%;
• semi-sweet – 18–22%

Health benefits of dry red wine

If you take this type of alcohol correctly, you can achieve a positive effect on the body. First make sure that you do not have any general contraindications for drinking alcohol. If there are none, then wine will help you get the following beneficial effects:

1. Strengthening the cardiovascular system. The elasticity of the vessel walls increases due to procyanides. These are special substances found in wine tannins. Moderate consumption of dry red wine reduces the risk of a heart attack (this has been proven by scientists).
2. Antioxidant action. The beneficial effect is achieved due to the content of flavonoids in the drink (found in grapes). There are more of them in red varieties; the most active antioxidants are quercetin, resveratrol, and catechin. These substances help neutralize free radicals in the body, which provoke immune dysfunction, strokes, heart disease (heart attack), some types of cancer, and degenerative disorders.
3. Improved brain function. The properties of short-term and long-term memory are improved. The beneficial effect of the drink extends to those areas of the brain that are responsible for emotions and the ability to learn (perceive new information).
4. Reducing bad cholesterol levels. In healthy people, the decrease in the indicator after drinking wine reached 9%. Those who had cholesterol problems saw a reduction of up to 12%.
5. The risk of age-related cataracts is reduced and visual acuity improves.
6. The risk of developing caries is reduced and the condition of the oral mucosa is improved. Wine helps destroy bacterial flora that negatively affects the microflora of the oral cavity.

Beneficial properties of white wine

Some people prefer other types of drink. The benefits of white wine have also been studied by scientists; a number of beneficial properties help fight certain ailments. The positive qualities are as follows:

1. Antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Using this alcohol, you can disinfect water, destroy the causative agents of cholera, typhus, and other bacteria and microbes. Warmed wine is prescribed for colds as an antiviral agent.
2. Prevention of infectious diseases. Dry white wine helps treat gastrointestinal disorders. The drink prevents hepatitis A and prevents infection with the 5 main strains of influenza.
3. Reducing stress hormone levels. Nutrients reduce the likelihood of developing depression and improve mood.
4. Prevention of Alzheimer's disease and atherosclerosis. The drink improves thought processes, strengthens memory, and helps absorb nutrients from food. Due to the production of lipoproteins, which increase the content of “good” cholesterol, the likelihood of cardiovascular pathologies and atherosclerosis is reduced. It is important that the desired effect will only be achieved when using a natural product, and not tinted wine powder.

Why wine is good for women

For the fair sex, this drink is valuable because of its pleasant taste and natural sleeping pills. This is the first positive effect - the fight against insomnia, from which no person is immune at any age. The following benefits of red wine for women have been proven:

1. Slowing down the aging process. The beneficial substances and microelements from the drink help resist cellulite and cleanse the skin. Cosmetologists recommend taking a bath with one bottle of alcohol added to the water. The result will be immediately noticeable: the skin will become more “alive”, take on a fresh look, be young and smooth.
2. Dry wine for weight loss. One of the positive properties is the normalization of the nervous system thanks to the sleep hormone melatonin. This makes it easier to tolerate diet and exercise while losing weight.
3. The drink is low in calories, and the composition suppresses the production of substances that lead to obesity. The components are also involved in the fat burning process.

Which wine is healthier, white or red?

There are minor differences between these varieties, but both will be useful if you follow two simple rules:

1. You bought a natural product that was prepared from pure raw materials using the correct technology, and it is not a wine substitute.
2. Moderate consumption in the prescribed dosage, and not whole liters every day.

The benefit of red wine lies in its slightly higher content of resveratrol (a natural antioxidant), but it is also present in white wine. Red varieties have a little more potassium and magnesium, and lutein is also present (provides color to the drink), which is not present in white varieties. The latter, as a rule, are weaker in degrees, therefore safer for health. There are no other noticeable differences, so if you drink 1-2 glasses you won’t notice the difference. The choice is often based on taste preferences.

Usage rate

Scientists emphasize that it is beneficial to drink wine only in limited quantities. It is recommended to drink from 100 to 150 ml of the drink per day. If you exceed the norm, alcohol will begin to have a negative effect on the body. It changes the mental state, can cause headaches (migraines), and has a detrimental effect on the liver. If consumed in excess, wine causes the following negative reactions.

Many scientific studies have been devoted to the benefits of red wine; you can often find recommendations to drink a glass of red wine a day, even doctors sometimes recommend it to their patients. Is red wine healthy and what is its effect on the body? Let’s try to figure it out in this article.

Although experts do not doubt the positive effect of moderate consumption of red wine, there are still disagreements in explaining the mechanism of this effect. Thus, scientists from Uruguay, after deciphering the genome of the dark grape variety Tanna, established a high content of procyanidin (flavonoid, natural antioxidant) in it. Another study conducted at Queen Mary University of London found that the procyanidin content of Tanna grapes was 3-4 times higher compared to another famous grape variety, Cabernet Sauvignon.

Other scientists insist that red wine contains the substance resveratrol, synthesized by plants of dark grape varieties, which can inhibit the development of inflammatory processes in the body, hearing loss, aging in general, as well as senile changes in the brain, etc.

In addition, red wine belongs to the category of foods high in antioxidants. Another similar product is green tea. Antioxidants also slow down the aging process and help fight serious illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease.

How is red wine made?

When it comes to whether drinking red wine is healthy, the question arises of how to obtain this drink. Red wine is made from dark grape varieties, that is, from “purple” grapes, as they are called in wine regions. It is harvested at a strictly defined time for each variety, when the ratio of sugars and acids in the berry reaches the level necessary to obtain the planned result.

It is noteworthy that in countries with a long history of winemaking, such... Like Italy and Spain, the grape harvest has its own name: in Italy it is “vendemmia”, and in Spain it is “vendimia”. Grape harvest time in the northern hemisphere is from July to October, and in the southern hemisphere from February to April.

And, although special machines for harvesting grapes have already been created, the best varieties of wine are obtained by hand picking, which is more gentle on the plant and berries. After the grapes are harvested, they are macerated and pressed, and the resulting must goes through the stages of fermentation, filtering and bottling.

Benefit for health

It is clear that the bad reputation of alcohol makes one doubt whether red wine is healthy. However, studies conducted in Europe have shown that drinking 22-32 grams of alcohol per day protects against death from many causes. A comparison of drinking wine with other alcoholic drinks proves the greater benefits of the former.

In addition, a small amount of dry red wine will reduce the harm caused to the body by smoking - a habit that definitely cannot be discussed as to whether it is beneficial. Red wine will not harm blood vessels due to its positive effect on their endothelium. Smoking impairs the ability of blood vessels to contract or, conversely, relax. Restoring endothelial cells restores this ability, including promoting normal heart function. Therefore, the answer to the question “Is red wine good for the heart?” also positive.

According to a study conducted by the University of Massachusetts (USA), red wine in limited doses promotes weight loss, as it inhibits the formation of new fat cells and helps fight existing ones.

Italian researchers studied whether dry red wine is beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory gum diseases. It turned out that some components of this drink inhibit the proliferation of harmful microorganisms in the oral cavity, helping to prevent caries, gingivitis and sore throat.

Red wine can improve brain activity; more than 70 scientific studies have been devoted to this. The antioxidant properties of the drink and the reduction of blood clots in blood vessels explain its positive effects.

The University of California has proven that moderate consumption of red wine can improve your mood due to the endorphins it releases. It turned out that wine brings more pleasure if you drink it in rooms with furnishings in red and blue tones.

Red wine can reduce the risk of lung and prostate cancer, and also slow down the development of breast cancer, but you must strictly adhere to the norm.

Drinking red wine increases the proportion of “good” cholesterol, has a positive effect on vitamin C levels, and reduces allergic reactions.

How much can you drink?

The benefits of red wine can only be discussed if its consumption is limited. Is it healthy to drink red wine every day? Yes, but only if the quantity does not exceed one glass for women and two for men. In addition, this glass of wine can not be drunk at any time, but at the same time as food. It is clear that based on our lifestyle, if you work in a team, then it is better to drink a glass of wine with dinner, so as not to embarrass your colleagues with the smell of alcohol.

What is the difference between dry wine and semi-sweet and sweet wine?

The difference in wine according to the remaining sugar content explains its classification into types: dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet and sweet. To obtain sweeter types, the fermentation process is artificially delayed by adding some reagents or by physical action: cooling the product at the required level of sugar content.

Is semi-sweet red wine healthy?

After discussing the question “is it healthy to drink?” Dry red wine is compared to semi-sweet and sweet red wine. If you are at risk of diabetes or already suffer from it, then there can be no question whether sweet or semi-sweet red wine is healthy. You need to choose only dry food and strictly adhere to the consumption norm.

Controversial issues

After the discovery of various beneficial components contained in red wine, scientists and doctors were inspired to create a drug based on it that could fight many diseases. However, these studies have not yet produced significant results.

In addition, when discussing whether red wine is useful for the prevention of cancer, it is necessary to remember that in addition to the beneficial components, the product contains alcohol, which can provoke the development of certain types of cancer.

You also need to take into account that the beneficial components contained in wine do not come from the skin or pulp of the berries, but from the seeds, which release them during fermentation. However, not all modern varieties are produced in such a way that the substances have time to flow from the seeds into the drink. Therefore, when discussing whether red wine is healthy, it is better to choose one prepared using traditional technologies.

Dry red wine: benefits and harm. The best dry red wines

Red wine is made from different varieties of red and black grapes. A glass of this drink can do much more than just help you relax during a date or after a difficult day at work. Especially dry red wine. The benefits and harms of such wine have long been the subject of research and debate among scientists. As with almost all products, there are supporters of both the first and second points of view.

Doctors who consider the drink healthy talk about longevity, reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering cholesterol. Opponents remind us of the calories it contains, the decrease in reaction speed and the long road to the scourge of the Russian people - alcoholism.

Increased life expectancy

Researchers from Harvard Medical School confirm that resveratrol can resist aging by stimulating the production of a protein that protects the body from “age-related diseases.” This powerful plant antioxidant is found in the skin, seeds and in smaller quantities in the leaves of grapes. During the process of making wine, it remains in the drink, along with a whole collection of other, no less useful and interesting components, such as tannins, flavonoids, tannins, quercetin.

Memory improvement

A good dry red wine can improve short-term memory. After a thirty-minute test, the researchers found that participants taking resveratrol supplements showed significant improvements in word recall, as well as better hippocampal function. This part of the brain, according to modern science, is responsible for new memories, learning and emotions.

Reducing the risk of heart disease

In 2007, the results of a study were published that collected evidence to support the hypothesis that procyanidins, components found in the tannins of red wine, help support cardiovascular health. The content of these components is especially high in wines produced in the southwestern regions of France and Sardinia. People in general also live longer there.

Another study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that drinking red wine in moderation reduces the risk of heart attack.

Improves eye health

Dry red wine, the benefits and harms of which are constantly being studied, has also been noted in connection with eye health. The results of several years of research conducted in Iceland were presented at the annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. Conclusions: People who drink red wine in moderation are half as likely to develop cataracts as those who drink a lot or not at all.

At the same time, by moderate drinkers we meant those who drink no more than 2-3 glasses a day and at least 2 glasses a month.

Reducing the risk of cancer

According to the findings of researchers from the University of Virginia, a component found in grape skins can destroy cancer cells. This means resveratrol. It works by blocking the development of a key protein needed by such degenerated cells.

Improved dental health

Polyphenols in wine can slow down the growth of bacteria in the mouth and potentially help prevent cavities in teeth. This is reported by a summary of observations published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (from the American Chemical Society). During the study, the bacteria responsible for tooth damage were exposed to various liquids. The wine showed quite high efficiency in the fight against them.

Reducing cholesterol

Another study conducted in Madrid proved that good dry red wine, such as Tempranillo and Rioja, can lower cholesterol levels. In healthy study participants, after consuming the components found in wine, the level of “bad” cholesterol dropped by 9%. The results of people with high cholesterol who consumed the same wine components showed a drop in cholesterol levels by 12%.

Help protect against colds

This drink is also a good defense against colds (thanks to the antioxidants it contains). Those who drink more than 14 glasses of wine during the week have a 40% lower risk of getting sick.

Is it harmful?

There are many research results that lead to the conclusion that everything that dry red wine brings is beneficial. And, however, there is harm from it too. Wine is not good for everyone. And most importantly, it is not useful in any quantity. In various publications, recommendations for the amount vary - from 50 to 200-300 grams per day. Most often you can find advice to drink no more than three glasses for men and one and a half for women.

An amount of more than 300 grams per day will no longer bring any benefit - on the contrary, the effect becomes exactly the opposite. At the same time, it is important to distinguish what kind of wine is consumed, since only a natural, good drink helps your health.

The best dry red wines

The age of wine is comparable to the age of civilization: real evidence of this is found by archaeologists in vessels with drinks made 2 thousand years ago. These are products made from rice and other components (and not dry white or red wine) - the benefits and harms of drinks with such aging cannot be assessed, because it is unlikely that anyone would risk assessing them personally. The taste is also unknown - tasters cannot try this, as it may be unsafe for health, but this find illustrates the popularity of the vine very eloquently.

In the modern world, good drinks are made in several regions of the planet - among them France, Italy, Spain, Georgia; there are excellent varieties in the USA, New Zealand and Australia, in the vast expanses of the former Soviet republics.

The best red dry wines of Georgia are “Saperavi” and “Mukuzani”. "Mukuzani" is made and is considered one of the best wines from the Saperavi grape variety. Aged for at least three years and goes great with meat. Saperavi wine is also made from the same variety (it is aged for at least a year), which, like red wines in general, goes well with meat.

Among the Spanish wines, it is worth mentioning Pingus 2006, which received top marks from wine expert Robert Parker. It goes well with meat dishes and hard cheeses, but its cost is over 1000 euros.

Unico Reserva Especial NV, Vina El Pison 2007, L`Espill, Vega Sicilia Unico 1998, Enate reserva especial 1998 are excellent dry red wines, which received reviews and high marks from famous tasters and connoisseurs.

Dry red wines of France - Chateau Bessan Segure Medoc, Chateau Grand Medoc Ferre CORDIER, Chateau Gillet Bordeaux AOC, Tour de Mandelotte Bordeaux AOC (suitable for almost anything), Premius Bordeaux AOC, Castel Bordeaux AOC (for meat or chocolate), Bordeaux Collection Privee CORDIER (perfectly combined with pates and cheeses).

By the way, French wines are divided into several quality categories, and AOC is the highest of them. These are real jewels among wines - the quality and characteristics of these drinks are controlled by a special institution (INAO).

You can’t ignore Italy - it’s one of the oldest wine-producing regions on the planet, and the drinks here are made to match the taste and quality. The best of them are assigned the DOCG category, and a slightly lower level - DOC.

The best dry red wines of this region are Barbaresco (one of the ten best wines in the world), Barolo, Chianti, Salice Salentino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Valpolicella. These are drinks that deserve (and have) the highest ratings and are a must-try for anyone who wants to taste great wine.

Produced in different regions of Italy, they are united by taste, quality and reputation in the “Top Class” category. These wines are quite capable of competing with the best products from France, Spain and other wine-producing countries.

Dry red table wine from these regions is not considered high-quality, but it tastes very good and can be safely bought for dinner or lunch.

The benefits of red wine - its beneficial properties and harm to health

Hippocrates highlighted the beneficial properties of red wine, and Louis Pasteur also spoke no less positively about the effects of wine. In many countries (particularly France), red wine is considered a national drink and is consumed by the majority of the population as a daily must-have drink.

The benefits of red wine as a natural product obtained from the fermentation of pure grape juice are undeniable. This drink contains a lot of useful, necessary and indispensable substances for health. Red wine contains micro and macroelements: potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium, copper, chromium, rubidium. Thanks to this “bouquet,” red wine has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system: dilates blood vessels, reduces the level of bad cholesterol, prevents the development of atherosclerosis, magnesium and potassium strengthen the heart muscle. Wine has an equally positive effect on blood composition, increases the number of red blood cells, increases hemoglobin levels (reduces the risk of anemia), removes radionuclides and reduces blood density.

Drinking red wine has a stimulating effect on the digestive tract: it increases appetite, enhances the secretion of glands, helps maintain normal levels of acidity in the stomach, and enhances the production of bile. Substances contained in red wine normalize metabolic processes, in particular chromium is involved in the synthesis of fatty acids (therefore, in many diets, when many foods are limited in the diet, the consumption of red wine is allowed).

Red wine is a source of bioflavonoids and antioxidants (quercetin, resveratrol); these substances not only fight free radicals and prevent premature aging of cells, they also prevent the formation of blood clots and reduce the risk of developing cancer. Resveratrol has a beneficial effect on the gums, strengthens them, prevents plaque and prevents harmful bacteria (such as Streptococcus mutans) from sticking to tooth enamel.

It also has a tonic and anti-stress effect on the body. When drinking this drink, the endocrine glands are stimulated, metabolism increases, immunity increases, and sleep improves.

About the dangers of red wine

What is noteworthy is that the beneficial properties of red wine appear only when consumed in limited doses - no more than 100-150 ml per day. If the consumption rate is higher, then the harm of red wine becomes obvious. Indeed, in addition to useful substances, red wine contains alcohol, which has a destructive effect not only on the physical condition, but also on the human psyche. The tannin contained in wine can cause severe headaches.

Harm of red wine The damage to the body when consumed in excess is as obvious as the benefits when consumed in small doses. In large quantities, wine negatively affects the functioning of the liver, causes surges in blood pressure, can cause the development of hypertension, osteoporosis, and provokes the development of cancerous tumors. In addition, drinking alcohol slows down a person’s reaction, causes changes in the psycho-emotional background, and can cause the development of such severe mental illnesses as delirium.

For people suffering from ulcerative lesions of the gastroduodenal region, coronary heart disease, as well as pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver and depression, drinking red wine will definitely be harmful and is completely contraindicated.

Which wine is healthier (red or white) and why?

Madeleine

Red wine is more than just a tasty drink, it's also rich in antioxidants called flavonoids, which have beneficial effects on heart muscle health.
Red wine contains substances that are antioxidants. Wine contains the largest amount of the antioxidant substance resveratrol. It is naturally found in the seeds and skins of grapes. During the wine making process, this substance accumulates and reaches significant amounts in the final product.
White wine also contains resveratrol, but in much less quantity than red wine, since the seeds and skins are removed at an earlier stage in the process of making white wine than in making red wine. Wine also contains the following antioxidant substances: saponins, catechins. They prevent the harmful effects of free radicals on body cells. Antioxidants also prevent the process of cholesterol oxidation and its deposition on the walls of blood vessels.
Resveratrol prevents platelets (blood cells involved in the formation of blood clots) from connecting with each other, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Ekaterina Gerasimova

Antioxidants contained in white wine are stronger than in red, but they are much less quantitatively in white than in red. Therefore, it is traditionally believed that red wine is healthier.
www.ruhealth.ru/enoterapiya.doc here is a very interesting article about the treatment of various diseases with wine, sometimes white is healthier.

Julia

Wine, like any other alcoholic beverages, cannot be good for health. Any amount of alcohol, in addition to being a foreign substance for the body, also dulls the clarity of the mind, reduces the speed of thinking and reaction speed. What's the use?

Yaroslav Popov

of course red, because The wine turns red due to the fact that it ferments along with the grape skins remaining after squeezing the juice. From the skin, biologically active substances that are extremely beneficial for the body get into the wine, which color the wine red. Of course, the grapes should be red, not white. If the juice of red grapes ferments without the skins of the berries, then the result is not red, but white wine. Of course, dry wine is the healthiest. Drink it every day, following two rules: no more than 300 grams per day and drink exclusively during meals, and take the first sip of wine no earlier than the middle of the meal, when there is already food in the stomach, this will avoid stress on the liver, because. ethyl alcohol contained in wine is digested not only in the liver, but also in the stomach.

Marina

Dry white wine is lighter, but red wine is better at breaking down fats from food. That is why it is better to drink fatty foods with dry red wine. White table wines have significant diuretic properties, relieve fatigue, and are useful for weakened cardiac activity. Red table wines help remove radionuclides from the body (especially Cabernet), are useful for anemia, and prevent thrombosis, which in four out of five cases is the cause of strokes. Wine has not only bactericidal, but also hematopoietic properties, since, unlike white wine, there is almost no residual sugar. Therefore, it is recommended for diabetics and people of heavy build. For indigestion, red wines such as Saperavi and Cabernet are recommended. Red wines are generally healthier than white wines, as they contain more healing substances. Wine also has antioxidant properties, which protects against many diseases, including cancer.

Which wine is healthier - red or white?

Madeleine

The French say that red wine is created for health and pleasure, pink - for love, and white wine - to quench thirst. :-))
Studies have shown that red wine has a significant beneficial effect on poor human health. In 1998, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published the results of the following experiment: several volunteers drank half a bottle of red wine every day for two weeks, while another group of people from among these volunteers drank the same amount. White wine. The amount of antioxidants recorded in the volunteers' blood plasma peaked within half an hour or so after they drank red wine and lasted for another 2-4 hours. Consumption of white wine had no effect at all.



White wine made from skinned grapes does not contain resveratrol. It is believed that resveratrol is the cause of the so-called “French paradox” (high consumption of fatty foods and low rates of heart disease) in conditions of moderate consumption of red wine.
White wine is not as dense as red wine. The taste of white wines contains berry and fruit tones. These are the drinks that quench your thirst well. To quench your thirst in the heat, there is a recipe using white wine. To do this, chilled white wine is diluted with the same amount of cold water and an ice cube is added.
On the other hand, it cannot be said that white wine has absolutely no benefits for human health. According to the “Code of Enotherapy” by the French doctor Eylo, drinking light white wines is useful for maintaining the heart muscle, and dry white wines, again with mineral water, will help with atherosclerosis. In addition, dry white wines with an alcohol content of less than 12% are recommended for metabolic disorders, stomach diseases and anemia. White wine is also called “light for the lungs.” A study conducted by the University of Buffalo found that drinking white wine is good for your lungs. The results were presented at a meeting of the American Thoracic Society, where scientists announced that drinking white wine improves lung function.
Regardless of whether the wine is red or white, its aging period does not affect health benefits in any way. Over the years, only the price increases, and not the amount of vitamins or flavanoids. If we talk about red wine used for treatment, then first of all we mean dry red wine. And, preferably, young. Semi-sweet varieties, and especially fortified ones, are less healthy.

Ponomarev Viktor

Red. The difference is that white is obtained by fermenting grape juice. All components of the berry are involved in the production of red wine: skin, pulp, seeds. Accordingly, more nutrients are transferred into the drink. Of course, if the wine is real grape: “fruit-bearing” is often tinted.

Unknown

British biochemists have shown that red wine has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Scientists believe that the healthiest red wines are produced in southwestern France and the Sardinian province of Nuoro.

Olga Ivanova

Red wine contains more antioxidants, but in white they are smaller in size, penetrate the body tissues more easily and therefore act more effectively. Red wine contains more beneficial substances, especially those made from well-ripened grapes with thick skins. Similar wines include: French Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chilean wines, Cahors. Resveratrol, a substance that increases life expectancy, is most abundant in red Bordeaux wine, Burgundy Pinot Noir, and Italian wine from Valpolicella.
It is precisely because wine is a good anti-stress remedy that many begin to abuse it.
“The first cup belongs to thirst, the second to joy, the third to pleasure, the fourth to madness.”

Inna Lee

Some people prefer red wine, others prefer white. It's a matter of taste. Which wine is healthier? Scientists have found the answer to this question.
From a scientific point of view, not all wine is equally beneficial for the body. Research shows that red wine has a significant beneficial effect on poor human health. In 1998, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published the results of the following experiment: several volunteers drank half a bottle of red wine every day for two weeks, while another group of people from among these volunteers drank the same amount. White wine. The amount of antioxidants recorded in the volunteers' blood plasma peaked within half an hour or so after they drank red wine and lasted for another 2-4 hours. Consumption of white wine had no effect at all.
Scientists also found that red wine significantly reduces the production of endophelin-1 protein in the body, an excess of which leads to atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. White wine has no effect on the amount of endophelin-1. Among 23 varieties of red wines, the most effective were those that contained the largest amount of so-called polyphenols. In particular, these are wines made from cabernet and sauvignon grape varieties.
It is believed that the amount of anthocyanin dyes contained in 200 g of red wine will fully satisfy a person’s daily need for vitamin P, which helps absorb ascorbic acid. There is very little of this vitamin in ordinary foods, although it is extremely important for metabolic processes.
The reason for such a fundamental difference in the properties of white and red wines lies in production technology. The fact is that grape skins release their beneficial substances into red wines. Whereas I make white wines exclusively from grape juice with pulp.
The French say that red wine is created for health and pleasure, rose for love, and white wine for quenching thirst. Therefore, white wine should be drunk in those months of the calendar whose names do not have the letter “r”: May, June, July and August. Summer is the time for this golden light drink. It is not for nothing that white wine is usually served chilled to 6-8° C, and high-quality white wine - to 4-6° C.
White wine is not as dense as red wine. Summer wines have higher acidity, lower tannins, and therefore are not as tart. The taste of white wines contains berry and fruit tones. These are the drinks that quench your thirst well. Sauerkraut - health benefits and harms; Raspberries - health benefits and harms; which fish is the healthiest for humans?

It is impossible to find a person who has never heard of red wine. This is a popular drink known to people since ancient times. Legends were made about him, and poems were dedicated to him.

However, not everyone views it as a medicine. Meanwhile, when consumed in moderation, red wine can bring many benefits. And the harm produced depends on the quality of the raw materials, the amount of alcohol consumed and the individual characteristics of each person.

It is no coincidence that the French are distinguished by good health and longevity. Regular inclusion of a small amount of wine in the diet provides them with a high life expectancy.

Many people do not know which wine is healthier - white or red. The second grade contains the largest amount of useful substances. It is prepared using a special technology, in which all the substances found in the skin of the grape berries are transferred into the drink. This explains its rich color.

In addition, the amount of antioxidants in it is significantly higher than in white wine. That is why it is often used for medicinal purposes. To make white wine, the skins are separated from the berries, which reduces its beneficial qualities.

Red wine is low in calories. The composition includes B vitamins, macro- and microelements (iron, zinc, potassium, sodium, magnesium, chromium, calcium), antioxidants, tannins and natural preservatives. This set of components explains all the positive properties of the red drink.

How often to drink

Is it healthy to drink wine every day? Yes, but to avoid a negative effect, you should strictly follow the norm: 50 g per day (about 3 tablespoons) will not cause harm. This is a therapeutic dose.

The maximum amount that is safe for women is a glass of wine (150 ml). Men can afford a little more - about 200 ml. But you don’t need to drink this amount every day, because it is considered harmless, but no longer medicinal.

What is the benefit

The beneficial properties of red wine are transferred to the drink from the grapes. This berry is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, macro- and microelements. Its composition causes a positive effect on humans, which is as follows:

• Flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants, protect the body from free radicals and prevent the development of cancer cells. They have a positive effect on the immune system and increase the body's resistance. Resveratrol (another antioxidant) cleanses the body of toxins and harmful substances, which promotes rejuvenation of the entire body;
• Procyanides are good for the heart and help strengthen it. Wine is also indicated for heart failure, because it helps to quickly normalize the functioning of this organ;
• Tannin is a phenolic compound that affects the color and quality of wine and protects the product from oxidation. Once in the blood, this substance increases the elasticity and density of blood vessels, which reduces the risk of diseases of the vascular system;
• The drink can both increase and decrease blood pressure. The effect depends on its variety. Sweet wine increases your heart rate, causing your blood pressure to rise. And the dry variety promotes the dilation of blood vessels and produces the opposite effect;
• Increases stomach acidity and improves food digestion, therefore it is used in the treatment of gastritis with reduced acid secretion;
• Iron makes wine useful for people with anemia, stimulates the production of red blood cells, strengthens blood vessels and improves blood circulation;
• Helps cope with bleeding gums and improves the condition of tooth enamel;
• Has a beneficial effect on visual acuity and prevents the development of cataracts;
• Elderly people who regularly drink this drink are less likely to suffer from senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease;
• 50 ml of wine at night ensures sound and healthy sleep.

Thanks to its rich range of useful components, the drink is recommended for consumption after serious illnesses. It will help restore the immune system and get rid of negative consequences.

But its benefits can only be discussed when it is made from high-quality raw materials and consumed in recommended doses.

For women

It is no coincidence that wine is considered a feminine drink. Ladies appreciate its pleasant taste and tart aroma. The male half of humanity prefers to drink stronger alcohol.

In addition to its excellent taste, the benefits of red wine for women include the prevention of breast cancer. A small amount of the drink helps slow down skin aging, increases collagen production and improves appearance. It stimulates sexual desire and enhances sensations during sexual intercourse.

A beneficial effect of wine on metabolic rate has been noted. The “bloody” drink has a low calorie content and helps get rid of fat. But it has such properties only when drunk in small quantities, since large doses of alcohol increase appetite.

Adding a few glasses of wine to your bath gives your skin a feeling of freshness and helps get rid of that hated cellulite. But the water should not be too hot. 35-36 degrees will be enough.

During menopause, the drink will reduce discomfort and pain. Therefore, the question “Is red wine good for women?” can be considered closed.

For men

The benefits of red wine for men have also been noted. This is an increase in potency and prevention of the appearance of secondary female sexual characteristics. The drink reduces the production of aromatase, a special enzyme that converts androgens into estrogens. But if you drink it in large quantities, the situation will change dramatically.

Thanks to the antioxidant effect, men are less likely to suffer from prostate diseases. In addition, it reduces the likelihood of problems with blood vessels and the heart, and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system.

For treatment with red wine, you should only drink its dry variety. Sweet or semi-sweet varieties provoke weight gain and increase cholesterol.

Which varieties are most useful?

To get a positive effect from drinking the drink, it is important to know which red wine is beneficial.

Any variety is suitable for a feast - sweet, dry or semi-sweet. But the second variety has a more pronounced therapeutic effect, so it is worth using it for the prevention of diseases. It contains a small amount of sugar.

With a high concentration of sugar in wine, the amount of antioxidants decreases.

The aging and storage conditions of the drink play a big role. If its age is less than 3 years, then the amount of nutrients has not yet reached the optimal level. A violation of the temperature regime destroys the healing properties of the drink.

Semi-sweet

To tell whether semi-sweet red wine is healthy, you need to pay attention to the amount of sugar it contains. This indicator is the main criterion for dividing the drink into varieties.

Of course, it has positive properties, but in a slightly smaller volume than the dry variety. The composition is no less diverse, but the high sugar content reduces its benefits to the body.

Dry

Dry red wine brings the greatest benefit to the body, and the harm from its consumption is minimized. It contains the maximum amount of antioxidants that have an anti-cancer effect.

The low sugar level allows this variety to be consumed even by people with diabetes.

It is this that helps lower blood pressure, so drinking dry wine is good for the health of hypertensive patients. The drink strengthens the heart, blood vessels and nervous system, lowers cholesterol levels, rejuvenates, cleanses and saturates the body with essential substances and microelements.

Traditional medicine knows many medicinal recipes that are prepared on the basis of this drink.

Harm and contraindications

The health benefits and harms of red wine depend on its quality. A powdered drink will not have a beneficial effect on your well-being. You need to use only natural products.

Use for medicinal purposes is permitted only after consultation with a doctor, who will determine the daily drinking rate.

Since wine contains alcohol, it is best not to drink it for people with the following diseases:

• pancreatitis;
• cardiac ischemia;
• chronic gastrointestinal diseases;
• dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
• diabetes;
• gout.

Wine is contraindicated during periods of exacerbation of any disease.

• Excess weight - the drink increases appetite, which leads to overeating;
• Alcohol addiction – addiction develops very quickly and can occur even from small doses;
• Depression, migraine and nervous disorder;
• Liver cirrhosis – for the development of this disease, it is enough to drink 2-3 glasses of alcohol per day;
• Although the drink has antioxidant properties, its excessive consumption provokes the appearance of malignant tumors. Large amounts of alcohol become a carcinogen, which causes irreparable harm. It especially affects the condition of the esophagus and oral cavity;
• Reduced life expectancy. This fate awaits those who allow themselves to regularly drink 0.5 liters of this drink.

The negative impact manifests itself not only in the form of the listed symptoms, but they are the ones that occur most often. The main harm comes from excessive consumption of low-quality raw materials, which have a depressing effect on the body.

Separately, it is worth considering the issue of drinking wine during pregnancy and lactation.

Some experts have nothing against one glass during pregnancy, because it helps relax the muscles of the uterus. However, professional consultation with a doctor is necessary in any case. During feeding, drinking any alcohol is strictly prohibited.

A small amount of red wine will not harm the body. A glass drunk at dinner will make you sleep soundly and calm the nervous system. But you don't need to do this every day.

The therapeutic dose is only 50 ml of the drink. In such quantities, it contributes to the healing of many organs and systems.

If you have doubts about the advisability of using it, you should consult your doctor. He will give clear recommendations and prescribe the required dosage. Abuse of any alcohol causes severe harm to health and even leads to premature death.

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