Next to coffee, my other favorite beverage is wine. Red to be precise. In my opinion there is nothing better than sitting back, after a long day at work and relaxing with a home cooked meal and a glass of that ruby red! Not to mention that according to physicians a glass or two is helpful to heart, helps prevent cancer and contains anti-oxidants that help keep you looking young.

Due to its alcohol and non-alcoholic natural occurring plant compounds, wine has been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers and slow the progression of neurological degenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease.

A prime cardiovascular benefit, that has been well documented it s ability to raise your good cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol) and thin your blood. Additionally, the non-alcoholic phytochemicals in wine, such as flavanoids and resveratrol, act as antioxidants and prevent molecules known as “free radicals” from causing cellular damage in the body. These are the same properties found in coffee that help in the anti-aging process we so desperately seek! Furthermore, resveratrol has been shown to prevent blood clotting and plaque formation in arteries, and can potentially improve cardiovascular health and lower the risk for coronary heart disease. Unlike white wine, higher levels of resveratrol is found in red wine due to the amount of time the skin is kept on the grape during its fermentation process. This is due to the cooler climates red wine is produced in as well as the length of time the skin is kept on the grape during the wine making process.

Obviously you should consume wine, or any other alcoholic beverage in moderation. Doctors recommend one to two 4-6 ounce glasses of wine a day. Some downsides to drinking wine are, if you are trying to watch your waistline (my biggest concern) watch out! Wine stimulates the appetite and supplies calories with very few essential nutrients.

Of course, a little may be good, but too much wine can lead to serious problems. No one should start drinking if they don’t already drink, especially women who are pregnant or at a high risk for breast cancer (alcohol raises the risk of breast cancer).

To enjoy the benefits of having good health, only allow yourself one to two drinks per day at mealtime and follow the recommended dietary guidelines for food, fitness, and weight management.

With wine or without, we at beruby toast to your good health and good fortune! Have a wonderful weekend!