Wine has ancient roots, dating back to 6000 B.C. The Egyptians, Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans all consumed, celebrated and even traded wine; its popularity has only increased. Today, over 6 billion gallons of wine are consumed every year.
Wine has established a reputation for itself as a “healthy alcohol”. Research reports reveal an association between red wine consumption and lower incidence of heart disease. Additionally, red wine specifically is a notable source for antioxidants and HDL cholesterol, or “good cholesterol”. The drink also helps to lower LDL oxidation, or “bad cholesterol”, and inflammation while improving blood pressure.
However, excessive drinking, even of wine, can develop into serious health problems, including liver cirrhosis, sudden cardiac death, alcoholic cardiomyopathies and cardiac rhythm disorders. The World Health Organization urges that the key is not only drinking in moderation, but supporting a healthy lifestyle, focusing on diet and exercise. Observational data suggests that a light to moderate intake, in regular amounts, appears to be beneficial.
Source: Washington Post, December 2017