Many of us enjoy a nice glass of red wine with dinner or to help wind down at night. Besides that relaxing feeling, there are actually several health benefits to having a (key being “a”, or one) glass of red wine daily. Maybe the French were on to something, after all?
Glens Falls Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing bring you these four health benefits of a glass of red wine.
- Improved Gut Health
A study conducted earlier this year showed that people who drink red wine had a better range of good bacteria than those who did not. Good bacteria helps with food digestion, the immune system, and the ability to stay at a manageable weight. The study only found this benefit to come from red wine, not white wine or any other type of alcohol.
2. Heart Health
The tannins contained in red wine have been found to lead to a reduced risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The antioxidants in wine also give a boost to HDL, or “the good cholesterol.” Moderation is key here, though, as excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the heart muscles.
3. Stronger Bones
While heavy drinking has been linked to osteoporosis, a study found that menopausal women had stronger bones if they averaged one drink per day. Physical activity also helps, as it prevents alcohol from affecting the absorption of calcium in the stomach.
4. Slower Decline in Brain Function
A 2014 study found that moderate alcohol intake (particularly wine) could lead to a greater total brain volume, which protects the brain from normal decline, along with conditions like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
To learn more about Glens Falls Center and all of the services they offer, visit https://centershealthcare.com/glens_falls_center/.
