Apr 08 2012
Wine as the Elixir of Man
Can our health and longevity be improved and increased by wine? According to scientist, this is true. But if the theory is true, then which wine will give us that?
Red wines that are rich in flavonoids are best for our health, and this was discovered by researchers. When it comes to flavonoids, they’re best known for their antioxidant qualities and helps the body resist viruses, allergens and other maladies.
Antioxidants which help the body resist cardiovascular disease and cancer are also found in red wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Syrah and Pinot Noir contain the highest concentrations of antioxidants and flavonoids.
Other red wines such as Merlots and red Zinfandels contain fewer flavonoids, but more than most white wines. When it comes to drinking wine for our health, the best bet would be to stick to the dryer red wines. However, there’s no need to get plastered every night just because wine contains components that are good for our health. Don’t overdo it — but adding a glass of wine to your daily diet can definitely make a difference to our health.
This was written by Paracelsus, a 16th century Swiss physician: “wine is a food, a medicine, and a poison – it’s just a question of dose.” As with almost any food or drink, wine consumed in large doses can be a detriment to our health.
One or two 4 ounce glasses of wine a day can be beneficial for men and women should only have one 4 ounce servings per day as agreed by most health officials.
Professor Roger Corder, a cardiovascular expert, spent years studying the red wine’s health benefits. In his new book, “The Wine Diet,” he says he is convinced that most of us should include red wine in our every day lifestyle.
Corder discovered what he eventually labeled the “French Paradox.” The French have a lower rate of heart disease and he wondered about this since their diet is rich in fats. He concentrated his research on the southwest portion of France, where life expectancy seemed to be highest.
Containing the highest procyanidin (antioxidant) content of any wines is the very tannic local wines produced in the region, and this was discovered by Professor Corder. This led him to further research on the amazing medical benefits of red wine.
While wine may not be man’s ultimate elixir or fountain of youth, it certainly behooves us to consider adding a glass of wine or two to our daily diet – and raise a “toast” to our continued good health.
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