Red wine has been a delicacy since ancient times. It has become a popular drink for social events, dinner parties, and relaxation. However, there are more health benefits to drinking red wine than people may know.

Among these benefits, is improving your heart health.

What is in red wine that makes it heart healthy?

Red wine is made from red or black grapes that contain antioxidants called polyphenols. These antioxidants protect the heart and blood vessels from damage and contribute to the health benefits offered by red wine.

The flavonoids in red wine, namely catechins and resveratrol, are believed to have different positive effects on cardiovascular health.

Catechins

Catechins are flavonoids that are found in high concentrations in green tea and red wine. These antioxidants have been shown to improve heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood pressure.

Catechins have been studied and known to help prevent atherosclerosis—narrowing of the arteries and blood vessels that can lead to heart disease. This is achieved because catechins can help to lower blood cholesterol levels thus reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke and lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol has also been studied for its positive effect on heart health. This natural compound has potent antioxidant actions that protect cells from oxidative stress, a primary factor that leads to heart diseases.

Research shows resveratrol can help to reduce triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood resulting in lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Resveratrol has been credited with reducing the risk of developing cancer and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

In red wine, Resveratrol is found in the skin of grapes and is believed to contribute to the increased lifespan of people who consume red wine in moderation.

The health benefits of red wine on your heart

Red wine can help improve your overall heart health and reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Drinking red wine in moderation can benefit your heart by:.

Improving circulation
Reducing the risk of blood clots
Reducing inflammation
Reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
Reducing the risk of developing certain cancers

Research has shown that consuming red wine, in moderation, can be beneficial for the heart. Studies have shown that moderate wine intake of one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men can result in:.

Lowering blood pressure
Reducing inflammation in blood vessels and heart
Reducing the risk of developing heart disease
Improving good cholesterol levels (High-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol

Keeping your red wine healthy for your heart

While red wine in moderation can be beneficial for your heart, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can be detrimental to your health. Drinking too much can increase your risk of developing liver disease, depression, and other health problems.

Therefore, consuming red or any alcoholic wine should be done in moderation.

Additionally, processed foods, dairy products, and excess sugar can negate some of the positive effects of red wine, worsening your cardiovascular health.

To maximize the benefits of red wine, you should focus on consuming plenty of whole, plant-based foods, lean protein choices, and exercise regularly.

The Bottom Line

Red wine can improve your heart health when consumed in moderation. The antioxidant compounds, catechins and resveratrol found in red win are beneficial to this. It is important to be mindful of the amount of wine consumed, keeping it moderate.

However, It should not be seen as a cure-all. It is always important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, with regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.