Hannibal’s Bite-Size ‘Sip-it’ – Is wine really good for you?

What a great subject for all us wine lovers out there!  Don’t we all just crave the suggestion that wine really does make a difference to our health?

Most of us have experienced the pain of over-indulgence at some point in our lives – a grim business, followed by an all-but-fleeting thought of  ‘never again’.   Truth is, if you’re reading this, then the chances are that you love wine and so it doesn’t take too long to get the wheels back on the wagon.

But what about those health benefits – is there any truth in them?  Simple answer is YES!   Wine does indeed contain two very important polyphenols containing anti-oxidant, anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory properties.  The first one, Resveratrol, has been widely documented and is linked with the ability to slow down the aging process, leading to a healthier heart.  The second one, Quercetin, is known to help alleviating allergies and asthma.  The anti-inflammatory properties have been known to help sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis.

Of course, the levels of these compounds vary greatly, with the greater concentration in red wines.

Other good sources of Resveratrol and Quercetin include dark fruits, green tea, apples and capers.

Needless to say, the good news must be muted with the very necessary message to drink great wine in moderation.

Cheers!