Wine, and red varieties in particular, has been recommended as a remedy for a variety of illnesses since antiquity, but it was not until the development of science that this wonderful beverage could be thoroughly researched for its specific health properties. It turns out that, when consumed regularly, wine can contribute to extending life expectancy, support the immune system, immunize against various types of cancer, improve mental health and have a positive effect on heart function. What is the reason for its almost 'miraculous' effect on the human body?
Cancer prevention
Los Angeles researchers have found that chemicals in grape skins lower estrogen levels while increasing testosterone levels among premenopausal women, resulting in a reduced risk of breast cancer. The results of this research are surprising, as alcohol consumption was previously thought to increase rather than decrease the incidence of female cancers due to the increase in estrogen levels. The researchers emphasise that the essential health-promoting substance is not wine itself, but red grapes, and the idea is not that women should suddenly start drinking preventively and en masse - rather that if they want to consume alcohol, it should preferably be red wine.
The Dutch researchers also point to the effect of wine on lung function. According to their research, pure resveratrol has a positive effect on the function of this organ, while the antioxidants found in wine may protect against lung cancer, especially for smokers. An article that appeared in 2007 in Harvard Men's Health Watch indicates that men who regularly consume moderate amounts of red wine are 52% less likely to develop prostate cancer compared to those who do not consume red wine, with moderate drinking understood to be the consumption of four to seven glasses of red wine per week.
Researchers at the University of Leicester also confirm that moderate consumption of red wine reduces the risk of colorectal cancer by 50%.
photo: panthermedia
Omega-3 fatty acids
Wine also works better than other alcoholic beverages at increasing levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which may be good news for vegetarians - as it is generally thought that fish is an excellent source of this chemical compound. Meanwhile, a study of 1 604 adults in London, Abruzzo and Limburg, based on a comprehensive survey of patients' general health and a dietary questionnaire, found that those who regularly consumed wine in moderation had higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, helping to prevent coronary heart disease.
The secret is in moderation
Most of us can probably easily tell you how alcohol abuse can damage your health. This is not to say that non-drinkers should suddenly start reaching for a glass of wine or two every day, but it is worth bearing in mind that this habit can help our health, not necessarily harm it. Poland is still not a country which has a well-developed culture of drinking wine; this custom is only gradually becoming established and improving, and good wine does not have to cost a fortune. Therefore, when reaching for a glass of alcohol on a cold autumn or winter evening, it is worth bearing in mind the health-promoting properties of the beverage made from grapes, as well as another famous quote - "all medicines are made by me, the wine".
