HEALTH BENEFITS OF RED WINE. ITS IMPACT ON THE CONDITION OF SKIN AND HAIR
Benefits of dry red wine What are the benefits of red wine for hair and skin. How to choose and how to store red wine.
INNA CODRU , AUGUST 21, 2018
CONTENT :
- How red wine is made
- Popular red wine varieties
- Why red wine is so healthy
- Is red wine always healthy?
- Health benefits of red wine
- The benefits of red wine for the skin
- Benefits of red wine for hair
- Which wine is better white or red?
- What are the side effects of red wine?
- Where else is red wine used?
- How to buy red wine? What should be taken into account?
- How to store red wine?
- Expert answers to readers' questions
Wine is a very old and very pleasant drink with a long and very fascinating history. It takes many years to really understand its complexity and become a connoisseur of wine, but you can already enjoy it now 😋. The benefits of red wine is the main reason why we decided to talk about it.
HOW RED WINE IS MADE
Red wines are those made from black grapes. But the color of the wine can vary - from intense purple hues (young wines) to brick red (mature wines) and brown (old wines). It is produced, in short, by crushing the berries (they are crushed in many different ways, someone with the help of special crushers, and in some places with their feet 😉) and the subsequent fermentation of these fruits (along with the peel and seeds).
The alcohol content of dry red wine typically ranges from 9% to 14%.
Seyas began to gain popularity with the phrase - Organic wine. This type of wine is somewhat different from regular red wine. Organic wine is made from grapes grown in accordance with the principles of organic farming, which prohibits the use of chemicals and other artificial fertilizers.
One glass of dry red wine contains, on average, about 125 calories. It contains approximately 3.8 grams of carbohydrates and no cholesterol 😄.
And that is not all. There are several different varieties of red wine.
POPULAR RED WINE VARIETIES
There are different varieties of red wine that are made from different grape varieties. Each of these drinks has its own unique taste. Here are some of the most popular grape varieties:
- Syrah , which is also called Shiraz. This variety can have a spicy and fruity flavor. The variety is usually used to produce vintage red or rosé wines. Many varieties of wines made from this variety have a pronounced aroma and are well stored.
- Merlot , this variety makes an excellent dessert wine with light fruity notes, its softness has made this variety a favorite for beginner wine lovers.
- Cabernet , a classic of world winemaking, Cabernet is one of the world's best varieties for wine production. This type of wine acquires its unforgettable taste when aged in oak barrels.
- Originating from the Bordeaux region of France, Malbec has a pleasant aroma and long aging, today it is mainly blended with Cabernet and Merlot.
- Pinot noir , which is one of the noblest red vineyards. This variety is difficult to grow, it is capricious, but thanks to this, when grown in different regions of the planet, it can produce wine with completely different taste characteristics. Due to its multifaceted taste and originality, this variety is not mixed with any other variety.
- Zinfandel , called the "American" variety, as it is very popular in the US, although it has Croatian-Italian roots. One of the most versatile grape varieties in the world. The taste can vary from light fruity (with notes of cherries, dark plums, cranberries) to complex and even sweet, like port wine. Perfectly blended with the same Shiraz.
- Sangiovese , an Italian classic, this wine can be a good choice for Italian cuisine. It has a rather bright taste, so it is often blended with Cabernet and Merlot, which makes it softer and more tender.
- Barbera , another Italian variety that has a similar flavor profile to Merlot, although not as popular.
Red wine is rich not only in its varieties, but also has a rich history. Along with the biblical story of Noah and how his juice was first turned into wine after the Flood, wine was first mentioned as an artificial medicine as early as around 2200 BC, in ancient Egyptian papyri and Sumerian tablets.
Before moving on, you need to be aware of the "French paradox" as well. It is a well-known observation that the French have very low rates of heart disease despite consuming high amounts of cholesterol and saturated fat. Some experts believe that it is the regular consumption of red wine (about 53 liters of wine per capita per year) by the French that is the reason for this interesting phenomenon.
All this shows that red wine is an elixir for life and good health. But what we don't know yet is what ingredients in red wine make it so beneficial?
WHY RED WINE IS SO HEALTHY
Red wine is made from grapes, and grapes are rich in antioxidants. Some of these include catechins, resveratrol, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidins.
Resveratrol, an antioxidant derived from grape skins, has anti-aging and heart-health properties.
Flavonoids, especially anthocyanins, the presence of which gave the wine a rich red color, have the most beneficial effect on the human body. And proanthocyanidins may reduce the risk of heart disease ( 5 ). These antioxidants also help fight free radicals. Wines, by the way, also contain sugar, and this is something you need to consider.
- Dry wine - 4 grams of sugar per liter
- Semi-dry wine - 4 to 12 grams of sugar per liter (0.5 to 2 grams per glass)
- Sweet wine - 45 grams of sugar per liter (6 grams per glass)
Red wine can be available in all of these types, but if possible, try to switch to a dry red wine variety.
So let's get to the main question -
IS RED WINE ALWAYS HEALTHY?
That's the whole point, isn't it? Or not? 😆😆😆. Yes, drinking too much is dangerous. It can ruin your life and make you wonder - "why did I ever take that first sip?!".
But red wine, consumed in moderation, will give you its own extraordinary benefits. Just like dark chocolate, by the way. Many people prefer a glass of wine with dark chocolate. This has its incomparable advantages. Read the article ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF DARK CHOCOLATE .
What is the benefit of wine? It's hard to associate this term with wine, isn't it? But, no more. Drinking red wine (in moderation, remember?) may reduce the risk of dementia ( 6 ). It may even prevent liver disease and offer protection against certain types of cancer (especially prostate cancer) ( 7 ), ( 8 ).
There are also many other benefits that are very beneficial to humans. Actually 🍷 😊.
Before we get into the utilities, we want to make one thing very clear:
WARNING
Neither the Department of Health nor the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommend that you start drinking alcohol to prevent illness. Alcohol can be addictive and can lead to serious health problems or even make some of them worse.
Now we can get started, okay? Fine.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF RED WINE
We have selected here those useful properties that may interest you in the first place.
1. Red wine improves heart health
The antioxidants in red wine can increase good (high-density lipoprotein or HDL) cholesterol. This prevents the accumulation of bad cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels, preventing heart disease. The polyphenols in red wine, especially resveratrol, may protect the walls of the blood vessels in your heart. Resveratrol has been found to reduce blood clots ( 9 ). Although more research is needed, the potential of red wine is promising.
The resveratrol in red wine can also prevent the accumulation of fat cells. It can also activate a protein called sirtuin 1, which protects the heart from many problems ( 10).
According to another study by the Israel Institute of Technology, red wine may improve the health of cells in blood vessels. According to the report, regular (and moderate) consumption of red wine for 21 days can significantly increase vascular cleansing function. But we want to re-emphasize the importance of wine in moderation. And in no way do we want to encourage you to drink more alcohol. A glass of wine here and a glass there is enough. Or if you're visiting for the weekend and having some wine with friends over dinner. But always remember moderation.
Red wine also dilates the arteries. And in terms of health benefits, two glasses of red wine is the same as five liters of fruit juice ( 11).
Quercetin, another red wine polyphenol, has cardioprotective properties, according to another study ( 12 ). Wine has also been found to help maintain blood pressure. In addition, it was confirmed that those who prefer moderate consumption of red wine have higher levels of good cholesterol than their counterparts. The study concludes that red wine is good as a dietary supplement and may be good for the heart. But be careful, only as an addition to the diet 😄.
Another American study suggests that the resveratrol in red wine may prevent age-related decline in cardiovascular function ( 13 ). And, according to another Italian study, while red wine has its benefits, we don't fully know how it affects other organs ( 14 ).
Speaking of healthy dosage, for men it is 1-2 glasses of wine per day. Women are better off limiting themselves to one glass of wine a day.
And if you're looking for a heart-healthy wine, then go for Pinot Noir - the grapes grown for this red wine are stored and then fermented in a humid and cold environment. This means that the most important parts of the grape for health retain all the beneficial properties.
While we know that moderate consumption of red wine can prevent heart disease, we don't know if it can reverse existing heart problems ( 16 ). More research is needed in this direction.
2. Red wine lowers cholesterol
In addition to boosting good cholesterol, the resveratrol in red wine can also lower bad cholesterol. But according to the National Cholesterol Education Program, cutting down on trans fats and getting exercise every day may be the best way to control your cholesterol... Not so interesting, huh?😁😁😁. Okay, let's continue about the wine 😁.
Studies say that a daily glass of red wine for four weeks can increase good cholesterol levels by 16 percent and decrease fibrinogen (a clotting compound) by 15 percent (17 ) . This is possible thanks to the alcohol contained in wine, which provides all these properties, which cannot be achieved with various grape extracts. Other studies say that if red wine has this property, then other forms of alcohol do not have a similar beneficial effect.
Red wine may help prevent the release of harmful compounds in muscle tissue that can raise cholesterol levels ( 18 ). And, according to one Brazilian study, red wine may help prevent plaque formation, which is a direct consequence of increased cholesterol levels ( 19 ).
Red wine not only increases the level of good cholesterol, but also makes its particles larger. Big and fluffy versions of HDL are great news for the heart ( 20).
3. Helps fight diabetes
According to the American Diabetes Association, drinking red wine can keep blood sugar levels low for up to 24 hours straight. There are also some studies that show how red wine can help diabetics.
According to a recent study, moderate red wine consumption helped reduce the risk of heart disease in patients with type 2 diabetes ( 21 ). But besides moderation, what diabetics (aside from their medications) should also consider is the time of day they decide to drink wine.
More interestingly, according to the study, people who drank wine three to four times a week were 30% less likely to develop diabetes than those who drank less than once a week. This is most likely due to the polyphenols in red wine, which help regulate blood sugar levels ( 22 ). However, the doctors involved in the study do not recommend that their patients start drinking wine just to reduce their risk of developing diabetes. You should also be aware that different types of alcohol can have different effects on blood sugar levels. For example, beer raises blood sugar levels, while hard liquor can lower blood sugar levels dramatically.
It's important to take your diabetes seriously because the statistics are alarming. According to WHO reports, the number of patients with diabetes has increased rapidly, from 108 million reported cases in 1980 to 422 million in 2014 ( 23 ). Diabetes can also cause stroke, kidney failure, heart disease, and lower limb amputation.
Another study has confirmed that taking a glass of red wine at night can actually reduce your risk of developing diabetes ( 25 ). This suggests that the active constituents of red wine have certain anti-diabetic properties. And according to another study in Ukraine, conducted on diabetic rats, red wine and its polyphenols show great promise in the treatment and even prevention of diabetes ( 26 ). Tannic acid, one of the non-alcoholic compounds in red wine, also plays an important role in the treatment of diabetes.
Red wine is one of the richest dietary sources of resveratrol, which research suggests may improve arterial health in diabetics.
If you're in the dilemma of whether to take red wine or white wine for diabetes, here's the answer - in one study, red wine can inhibit alpha-glucosidase activity (the enzyme that causes glucose uptake by the small intestine) by almost 100 percent, while white wine can achieve this by as little as 20 percent. Red wine also contains 10 times more polyphenols than white wine, which may be the reason for the lack of the desired effect.
Red wine also contains 13 times more resveratrol than white wine (because red wine is fermented for longer with grape skins). Research shows that post-meal spikes in blood sugar levels are one of the leading causes of diabetes ( 30 ). But if you drink a glass of dry red wine with dinner, then your blood sugar level will be about 30% lower than if you did not drink wine.
But it's important to consider the words of Dr. Emilia Burns, head of research at the UK Diabetes Laboratory, who says that although the research is impressive, these results should not be taken as a green light to start drinking more alcohol.
4. Fights Cancer
According to a report from the University of Rochester Medical Center, the resveratrol in red wine can destroy pancreatic cancer cells. The antioxidant achieves this by affecting the function of the main energy source of cells (also called mitochondria) ( 32).
In fact, the importance of red wine during cancer treatment is so great that doctors will not advise a patient to stop red wine if they are already taking it (in moderation, of course). Studies show that resveratrol not only destroys malignant cells, but also protects normal tissue from the harmful effects of radiation.
It is important to know that pancreatic cells are particularly resistant to chemotherapy. This is because the organ normally pumps powerful digestive enzymes into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine just behind the stomach). This natural process of pumping the pancreas can even save you the chemo you need. But what's fascinating is that the resveratrol in red wine can also reduce the power needed to pump chemotherapy out of cells.
Research has also shown that people who drink at least a glass of red wine a week are less likely to develop bowel cancer than those who don't drink or drink other liquor or beer (33).
Resveratrol also makes cancer cells more sensitive by interfering with proteins that often inhibit chemotherapy ( 34 ). But the concentration of resveratrol in red wine can reach 30 mcg / ml.
According to one Chinese study, red wine polyphenols can also inhibit the proliferation of colon cancer cells ( 35 ). Red wine was found to be unequivocally superior to white wine in the treatment of breast cancer. Apart from resveratrol, another compound called myricetin in red wine gives it additional preventive properties. And in tests on mice, red wine polyphenols were found to delay the onset of tumors. Another Spanish study indicated that red wine has a negative effect on the development of lung cancer, and further research is ongoing ( 36 ).
Another report published by Harvard Medical School highlights the potential of red wine to prevent prostate cancer ( 37 ). Men who drink moderate amounts of red wine are twice as likely to develop prostate cancer as those who don't drink it at all. The researchers suggest that the resveratrol in the drink may work against male hormones that stimulate the prostate gland. Red wine can also reduce the risk of some common and aggressive cancers by as much as 60 percent ( 38 ).
And, according to researchers at the University of Colorado, if you're going to drink alcohol, go for red wine (39).
But, let's be objective, there is some conflicting evidence - which is also important. One report suggests that red wine may, conversely, increase the risk of cancer. This can be explained by the increased alcohol content of wine ( 40 ). Therefore, we recommend that you see a doctor, at least in this aspect - since cancer is not some run-of-the-mill disease that we want to joke about . In addition, to reduce the harmful effects of alcohol, you can add a low-calorie fruit mix to your wine or drink a glass of water between each drink.
5. Prevents obesity
Research suggests that the resveratrol in red wine can turn bad fat into fast-burning brown fat. And diets containing similar antioxidants may help fight obesity ( 41 ). Resveratrol enhances the oxidation of dietary fats and prevents overload of the body. It converts white fat into brown fat (also called brown adipose tissue), which is burned as energy, thereby preventing obesity and metabolic dysfunction.
But it is important to note that some wine brands, especially Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, contain the maximum amount of resveratrol fractions found in grapes. This is because most of the beneficial polyphenols are insoluble and filter out during the winemaking process. While this may not be the case with all brands of red wine, it is important to learn about the winemaking process from the vendor. A little more knowledge might help.
Red wine consumption may also reduce the harmful effects of smoking ( 42 ). It can reduce inflammation and the cellular aging process (caused by an enzyme called telomerase) that normally speeds up after smoking.
According to another Spanish study, the polyphenols in red wine modulate the gut microbiota and help prevent metabolic disease in obese people ( 43 ). These polyphenols may also prevent obesity-related heart disease ( 44 ).
According to a Purdue University report, resveratrol, when converted to piceatannol, has an even stronger effect on the body. Piceatannol alters the developmental process of adipogenesis (the process by which fat cells mature at an early stage), meaning that the compound may delay or even inhibit adipogenesis ( 45 ). Piceatannol is also found in the skins of red grapes and their seeds, as well as in blueberries and passion fruit.
But let us re-emphasize this - addition. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, the calories and alcohol in red wine can contribute to weight gain and increase disease risk when taken in large amounts long-term ( 46 ). Therefore, limit consumption to 1 glass or less for women and 2 glasses or less for men. In a day.
6. Reduces the likelihood of high blood pressure and stroke
One report from Harvard Medical School, where they researched non-alcoholic red wine, recommends using non-alcoholic red wine over regular red wine. Wine protects against artery damage by lowering blood pressure ( 47 ). In addition, drinking non-alcoholic red wine can increase blood levels of nitric oxide. This is good news because nitric oxide relaxes the walls of blood vessels, improving circulation. However, regular exercise and proper nutrition will be the best options at all times.
Spanish researchers also say that the alcohol in red wine impairs its ability to lower blood pressure ( 48 ). Thus, non-alcoholic red wine can be a good alternative.
Another way red wine can lower blood pressure is by reducing stress. Stress can raise your blood pressure, but drinking a glass of red wine at night can help you relax.
A small glass of wine a day has also been found to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke by 10% ( 49 ). Anything outside of this amount can be a problem - since alcohol can raise blood pressure levels, thereby provoking a stroke.
The resveratrol in red wine may also encourage brain cells to defend against free radicals, thereby preventing stroke ( 50 ). But more research is needed - as not all types of red wine contain the same amount of resveratrol. But in any case, if you decide to drink wine, then make red wine the first choice - as it can protect the brain ( 51 ).
But again, we have conflicting evidence - another set of researchers say that the blood pressure-related effects of red wine are the same as those of beer. And removing alcohol from red wine may not make much of a difference. According to the researchers, it's a delicate balance. Alcohol, when taken in moderation, can reduce the risk of blood clots, which can otherwise lead to problems ( 52).
7. Increases lifespan
Studies by French scientists show that the resveratrol in red wine can increase lifespan by as much as 60% ( 55 ). The antioxidant may also provide higher energy levels to the body. While the tests have been done on worms, the researchers believe that similar effects could be seen in humans as well. Resveratrol can activate the so-called "stress response" in human cells, which can increase lifespan.
An antioxidant found in some berries, such as grapes, peanuts, and cocoa beans, is produced by these plants as a response to stress. It is a natural phytoalexin (also called “plant protector”) that is produced in response to mechanical injury (such as pruning), ultraviolet radiation, or fungal infection as a defense (56 ) . Research shows that it may work similarly in humans.
Another Italian study suggests that wine can increase lifespan by awakening genes for longevity ( 57 ). And, according to the Stanford Longevity Center, the resveratrol in red wine may protect our neurons from the unwanted effects of aging ( 58 ). However, the amount of resveratrol you can get from red wine is quite small compared to that in pills. If you want to get comparable amounts of resveratrol from wine alone, you may need to drink up to 600 bottles of red wine daily (!) ( 59 ). But that's certainly not a good idea, is it?
8. Red wine lowers stress levels
Well, this is what we know.
And yes, it's resveratrol again. This compound in red wine stimulates a specific protein that activates DNA repair mechanisms, suppresses tumor genes, and promotes longevity genes. Basically, we want to say that a glass of red wine a day can help you with this. The best way to achieve this is to drink a glass of wine with dinner rather than right before bed - this can have a calming effect on you without disturbing your sleep cycle.
But the stress effect of red wine does NOT apply to pregnant women. Women who are expecting a baby experience a lot of stress - and drinking red wine is not the best option for dealing with it. Alcohol in any form can harm a child ( 60).
Some foods, sweets for example, can relieve stress, but their disadvantage is weight gain. Fruits, vegetables, and red wine not only relieve stress, but also offer antioxidants that can be very beneficial ( 61).
9. Strengthens bones
One study published in the Oxford Academic Journal found that resveratrol in red wine can improve vertebral bone density in men suffering from metabolic syndrome ( 62 ). The study suggests that resveratrol has a positive effect on bone tissue, stimulating its renewal and mineralization. The compound also has anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent bone loss. Resveratrol stimulates bone-forming cells in the body ( 63 ).
One or two glasses of wine may work just as well as drugs to protect older women from bone thinning. Moderate drinking after menopause has been found to maintain bone strength in later years. An imbalance between the dissolution of old bone and the formation of new bone is known to be the cause of osteoporosis in older women, and alcohol, when consumed in moderation(!), corrects this imbalance (64 ) . The National Osteoporosis Society warns against excessive drinking. Excessive alcohol can increase the risk of fractures.
10. Reduces the risk of cataracts.
Resveratrol and other antioxidants in red wine may help prevent cataracts, according to research ( 65 ). In another study from the University of Washington School of Medicine, the resveratrol in wine prevents the uncontrolled growth of blood vessels in the eyes. It also prevents diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration ( 66 ).
Resveratrol may also reduce the risk of cataracts by increasing human levels of glutathione (67).
According to other studies, grapes (and the wine made from them), whether pink, red or black, can act as a magic wand in the fight against cataracts (68).
11. Promotes Liver Health
Moderate wine consumption has been shown not only to be safe for the liver, but may even reduce the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease ( 69 ). On the contrary, consumption of beer or liquor can increase the risk of such a disease by four times.
12. May Help Prevent Alzheimer's
The resveratrol in red wine has been found to repair damaged blood-brain barriers that prevent blood from flowing from the body to the brain. It is this restorative effect that slows down the development of cognitive problems in Alzheimer's patients ( 70 ). Alzheimer's sufferers face additional problems of inflammation of the nervous tissue, often caused by the secretion of harmful immune molecules from the body into the brain. Resveratrol blocks these immune molecules that can otherwise cause inflammation and destroy neurons.
Researchers have also studied compounds that are left behind after red wine passes through the gut—they call these compounds human gut metabolites ( 71 ). These metabolites can prevent brain cell death.
13. Improves brain health
Although wine molecules do not have aroma or taste, they stimulate the brain to create just such a taste impression, according to research conducted by the Yale School of Medicine. This makes your gray matter work harder, thus improving brain health ( 72 ). In fact, taste is never determined by the molecules of wine, but is created, under the influence of these molecules, in the brain of the taster.
Moderate regular doses of red wine have also been found to have antioxidant effects in the hippocampus of diabetics. And resveratrol has similar effects on both the hippocampus and the frontal cortex ( 73).
Just do not think that the more wine you drink, the smarter you will become 😃. Excessive(!) alcohol consumption can impair your thinking skills and cause brain damage ( 74).
However, we will again present conflicting research results. Some research does not support the common belief that a glass of red wine a day can prevent brain damage ( 75 ). Therefore, if you have any brain ailments, do not count on drinking wine, stop immediately and consult a doctor. It's not worth the risk.
14. Fights depression
According to a study, 2 to 7 glasses of red wine per week (NOT per day!!😁) can reduce depression levels. The same studies also suggest that exceeding this limit may, conversely, increase depression.
If in percentage terms (for clarity), then consumption of 5 to 15 grams of alcohol per day is considered optimal. A small glass of wine contains about 9 grams of alcohol.
15. Improves sleep
Grape red wine is rich in melatonin, the same compound that induces sleep in humans. This hormone is produced in our brain by the pineal gland. And nearly all the grapes used to make red wine contain more melatonin than our blood. According to scientists, the melatonin content in red wine may be high enough to help us sleep well ( 76).
The melatonin in red wine can regulate the circadian rhythm, thereby helping you sleep.
In yet another study, people who drank red wine reported better sleep quality than those who drank plain water (77).
16. Increases lung function
According to a report, the resveratrol in red wine can mitigate the inflammatory process that occurs in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ( 78 ). According to researchers from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London, smoking is the main cause of COPD and the disease is irreversible. And one Greek study found that two glasses of red wine reduced the damage to arteries caused by one cigarette.
According to an Ohio study, resveratrol may help treat pulmonary hypertension ( 79 ). Although more research is needed for a large-scale study, it seems promising enough for human health.
17. Prevents tooth decay.
Studies have shown that red wine can protect your teeth by preventing them from getting damaged. Wine can help remove bacteria from teeth that otherwise produce acid that damages teeth over time ( 80).
But it can be a trade-off between the pros and cons - reduced risk of tooth decay and extra calories from alcohol. However, in moderation, you can reap the benefits of drinking red wine.
Removes red wine and a bacterium called streptococcus that normally lives in between teeth. The polyphenols in red wine can help remove these bacteria ( 81).
However, studies also highlight contraindications. First, the study was conducted in a laboratory, and some critics argue that the conditions inside the laboratory are different from those inside the mouth. There has also been speculation that the alcohol, acids, and sugars in red wine may negate the benefits of its polyphenols.
18. Raises Omega-3 Fatty Acid Levels
We don't need to tell you how important omega-3 fatty acids are. According to a report from the Catholic University, moderate consumption of red wine can increase the level of omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cells. The study also states that red wine is better than other alcoholic beverages ( 82 ). The researchers believe that this effect can be attributed to the polyphenols found in wine.
This may also explain why red wine consumption is associated with improved heart health, as omega-3s are known to promote heart health.
19. Strengthens the immune system
Studies have shown that a daily glass of wine (red wine in particular) can boost the immune system and help it fight infections ( 83 ). A glass or two of red wine can also help you beat that annoying cold.
According to the American Journal of Epidemiology, this protection may be stronger with red wine, not white. The study says that red wine can develop some kind of immunity that can prevent more than 200 viruses that cause colds ( 84).
According to a University of Florida study, red wine does not suppress the body's immune response to external stimuli, which basically means that wine does not harm our immune system (if you count moderate wine drinking, of course). You can get all the benefits of red wine without compromising your immune function ( 85).
20. Helps fight Parkinson's disease
According to a 2008 study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology, resveratrol helps protect cells and nerves and reduces brain damage in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study was conducted on rats, with positive results.
Resveratrol has also been found to protect brain cells from damage caused by probes inserted into the brain for DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) treatment.
The catechins in red wine may also protect the brain from injury caused by neurotoxins (which are involved in the onset of Parkinson's disease) (87).
BENEFITS OF RED WINE FOR SKIN
See below how red wine can benefit your skin.
21. Slow down aging and skin fading
We have already seen how red wine slows down the aging of your body and brain. Well, it also works well in keeping the skin looking young.
A glass of red wine a day can help brighten your skin and reduce the risk of precancerous skin lesions ( 88 ). In fact, researchers show that resveratrol skin creams could be the next big thing in the cosmetics industry.
Red wine can also restore the original radiance of your skin. The polyphenols in wine can prevent cell oxidation, which leads to skin aging ( 89 ). In addition, the antioxidant properties of resveratrol work very well on oxidative stress, which is why skin cells renew themselves quite often ( 90 ). This antioxidant is so powerful that it is now being researched for its ability to prevent cancer and other dangerous skin diseases.
The resveratrol in red wine also protects the skin from harmful effects caused by UV radiation (91).
22. Fights acne
Resveratrol in red wine may slow the growth of acne-causing bacteria, according to a recent study. It also inhibits the proliferation of keratinocytes that cause acne ( 92).
The results were especially effective when acne sufferers also applied topical benzoyl peroxide treatment along with a glass of red wine. The combination of resveratrol and benzoyl peroxide may provide a long-term antibacterial effect on acne bacteria ( 93).
23. Helps with sunburn
Did you know that a sunburn can happen in as little as 20 minutes, but may not show up for up to 6 hours? This means that you can burn yourself in the sun without even realizing it. And guess what that means... It's the biggest risk factor for skin cancer. But don't worry - as rubbing red wine on the affected areas can relieve sunburn ( 94).
The flavonoids in red wine prevent the skin from forming reactive oxygen species, compounds that react with UV rays and cause sunburn. This does not mean that you can completely eliminate the use of sunscreen . Keep using sunscreen, but also take a sip of red wine from time to time.
HOW TO PREPARE A MASK WITH RED WINE
You can drink red wine as a drink or use a red wine mask. And making a mask is easy. In addition to red wine, you can also add seaweed and aloe vera. Mix one teaspoon of each of the three ingredients in a bowl. Wash and dry your face, then apply the mixture to your face (or affected area) using a cotton pad. Leave the mask as it is for 15 minutes. Rinse off with cool water and dry your face with a soft, clean towel.
BENEFITS OF RED WINE FOR HAIR
Here are some of the benefits of red wine for hair.
24. Promotes the growth of healthy and thick hair
Drinking red wine is believed to improve blood circulation, ensuring optimal circulation to the scalp. This may reduce hair loss.
You can also rinse your hair with red wine. After shampooing and using hair conditioner, you can rinse your hair with red wine. But be aware that slight hair coloring is possible.
The resveratrol in red wine is believed to reduce inflammation and dead skin cells on the scalp, thus promoting hair growth and making it thicker.
However, we would like to tell you that there is no 100 percent proof of the benefits of red wine for hair. Hence, be careful and consult a hair care professional.
WHICH WINE IS BETTER WHITE OR RED?
The main difference has to do with how the grape juice is fermented. To make white wine, the grapes are pressed and the skins, seeds and stems are removed before fermentation.
But in the case of red wine, the crushed grapes are directly transferred to the vats, and they are fermented along with the skins, seeds and stems (sometimes the stems and leaves, if present, are removed). It is the grape skins that give the wine its color.
And because red wine is fermented with grape skins (white wine is not), it contains more beneficial compounds than white wine.
In terms of greater utility, red wine wins. We speak as it is. Antioxidants are more concentrated in red wine. Wine also contains ethanol, which has the undesirable effects of impairing fluid balance and having a pro-oxidant effect. But the polyphenols in wine counter these negative effects. Because red wine has a higher concentration of polyphenols, it works better, partially offsetting the harmful effects of ethanol ( 95).
However, white wine has an advantage over red wine in terms of lung health. It contains certain nutrients that help the tissues in the lungs function better. While red wine also contains similar nutrients, these compounds are stronger in white wine ( 96).
The benefits of red wine are simply incredible. Oh yes, there are some inconsistencies. What you also need to know. As well as side effects, which we will talk about now.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF RED WINE?
Blood thinning effect Resveratrol is known for its anticoagulant properties. This means that the compound can block the coagulation property of blood platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. All of this becomes a threat when you take resveratrol along with blood-thinning medications. The result may be excess bleeding.
Negative effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding Alcohol in any form is not safe to drink during pregnancy. This can cause birth defects in the baby and may even cause a miscarriage. Red wine is a big NO-NO for breastfeeding mothers. Alcohol passes through breast milk, resulting in reduced learning skills in the baby ( 97 ).
Blocks Muscle Healing At high doses, resveratrol can interfere with the muscle recovery cycle after exercise and contribute to aging ( 98 ). Wine consumption may also increase the risk of breast cancer.
Headaches Also called red wine headache, this condition is often accompanied by dizziness and nausea. Headache occurs within 15 minutes after taking a glass of red wine. This is not usually seen with white wine or other alcoholic beverages. The high concentrations of sulfites, tannins, histamines, and prostaglandins in red wine can trigger these headaches.
HOWEVER, there are several ways, so to speak, LIFE HACKS, to prevent these headaches:
- Drink a glass of water after every glass of wine.
- Take one or two aspirin tablets (depending on the dosage of the active substance), or ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which are designed to thin the blood. But this is only recommended if you plan to drink one or two glasses of wine, no more.
- Avoid eating sugary foods with wine.
Other side effects Drinking, especially excessive drinking of wine, can also cause or worsen asthma, gout, insomnia, high blood pressure, and pancreatitis. If you suffer from any of these diseases, it is best to refrain from drinking red wine.
Drinking too much red wine can cause one or more of these side effects. However, moderate consumption, according to research, has an excellent effect on the body. But if you still do not want to take risks - refrain from drinking red wine.
WHERE ELSE IS RED WINE USED?
Red wine is used in cooking, as a marinade, as an ingredient in cooking, and as a flavoring in a finished dish. Adding wine to cooking enhances the flavor and aroma of food. Care should be taken regarding the amount of wine used during preparation. Adding too little wine won't change anything, and adding too much wine can ruin the dish.
Use a small but sufficient amount of wine to improve the taste of the dish. Do not add (!) wine to food before serving, as this makes the dish coarse. The wine should simmer for 10-12 minutes with food or sauce to enhance the dish. Since red wines are very acidic in nature, they release all the flavors of the dish, provided the wine does not have too much tannin.
Red wine is mainly used to flavor desserts. It is used in frying and stewing meat, as well as for degreasing pans to make sauce for chicken or steak. Any dry red wine is used for cooking.
HOW TO BUY RED WINE? WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER?
When you decide to buy red wine, keep the following guidelines in mind.
content of tannins. The lower the tannin content of the wine, the better (if you want to enjoy a soft wine). Low tannin content are Pinot Noir, Barbera and Sangiovese. High tannin content in varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Nebbiolo.
Marking. Check not only the grapes in the bottle, but also the region where the grapes come from. This may expand your choices.
Blend. Most red wines are blends. But don't worry about it. Just choose your brand that you like.
body of wine. It's basically color. It already depends on your taste, the required atmosphere and visual effect.
Oak. Red wines are most often aged in oak barrels, as it smooths out the sharpness of some wines and gives them a rich texture.
Vintage. Vintage wines. Understand what time can do to red wine 😊.
Price. You can safely choose inexpensive varieties, many of them are great (the main thing is that they are made from grapes and not from ... scary to say ... powder 😱), but don't shy away from expensive varieties from time to time.
Great. You know what to look for when buying red wine. But how will you store it?
HOW TO STORE RED WINE?
Proper storage of wine is important to maintain its quality, color, taste and aroma. Wine is quite perishable due to its low alcohol content, so it must be stored with great care. Red wine bottles can ideally be stored on their side, but not upright. This ensures that the corks stay moist. If corks dry out over time, air can seep in, oxidize and spoil the wine.
People generally think that the taste of wine continues to improve with age, but this is not the case for all wines. Most red wines made today are meant for immediate consumption. These wines will not improve with age and should be consumed within a month or two. Red wines, which should improve with age, certainly improve... but(!) only when stored properly.
Red wine should be stored away from ultraviolet exposure to sunlight, and also away from strong fluorescent light, as they can spoil it. Wine is usually stored in dark bottles to reduce exposure to light. But this does not fully guarantee the preservation of taste, since even a small amount of light can get inside. It is better to keep the wine in a box or wrap it in a cloth. Wine should be kept away from chemicals, food, and other household fragrances as the bottle cork is quite porous; it can easily absorb third-party aromas or odors, destroying the taste and aroma of the wine itself. You can, of course, store your red wine in a dedicated wine cellar, if your circumstances permit, to maximize its shelf life. The wine should not be subjected to any kind of vibration, as vibration prevents aging and provokes sediment in the wine.
Temperature is one of the most important factors affecting the quality and maturation of wines. The ideal storage temperature for wine is between 10 and 19 degrees Celsius. Temperatures that are too warm make the taste of alcohol in wine overly obvious, while storing it too cold will make the wine more bitter and astringent.
Let the bottle stand upright for a few minutes before serving it so that any sediment present in the wine can settle down. After opening the wine, try to finish the bottle within two to three days, as oxygen interacts with the wine, destroying its flavor. You can store it in the refrigerator for a day or two and take it out before use to warm it up to the right temperature. Red wine is served in a separate oval or egg-shaped glass to enjoy its taste and aroma to the fullest.
EXPERTS' ANSWERS TO READERS' QUESTIONS
Would it be good to drink a glass of wine at night?
Yes. It will help regulate your cholesterol levels and may even help you sleep better. But remember, only one glass of wine.
What is the best serving temperature for red wine?
For red wine, this is between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius. And for white wine - from 9 to 13 degrees.
What is healthier - beer or wine?
Wine. And, moreover, dry red wine.
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