We all have raised our wine glasses in a special toast and uttered the words -To Your Health. While we do not throw our wine glasses in the fireplace anymore there is a good deal to be said about the health benefits of wine, both red and white varieties.

What effect will drinking wine have on us? Wines especially red wine, are rich in flavonoids and recently researchers have compiled some information and statistics that these flavonoids are in fact beneficial to your health. Flavonoids have antioxidant properties which cause the body to defend against viruses and carcinogens resulting in helping your body fight against cancer and heart disease.

Unfortunately it doesn't mean that you go out and drink a whole bottle of wine. The operative word in this case is moderation; you have to keep the consumption of wine down. To drink too much then any benefits of the flavonoids and antioxidants that you would have had with one glass or two will be reversed. Not all red wines have high levels of flavonoids and antioxidents. Petit Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir seem to have elevated levels of the chemicals.

It is said by many providers of health that limiting yourself to one or two four ounce glasses of wine per day if you are a man, and if you are a women only one four ounce glass per day, will give you the health benefits you want. If you are of the fairer sex do not get after me, I am only the messenger.

One of the lowest rates for heart disease is found in the French people. They have been making and drinking wine throughout history so there has to be something said to the fact that red wine has health benefits. Wine from the French wine regions are shown to be very tannic and have superior levels of procyandin (an Antioxidant) than other wine areas around the world.

Not all wines are high in these flavonoids. Wines that are dry such as Zinfandels and Merlots are lower in these flavoniods. Having said that, they are still higher than white wines. But, do not let that stop you from enjoying them as they will provide you with health benefits providing you drink them in moderation.

There are many health benefits of wine which can not be overlooked. Of course the main benefits of wine include the absolute pleasure of sitting around with good friends and a great glass or two of wine.

Posted under Wine