Fit For Wellness

The other day I came across a journal article from the Institute of Food Technologists that discusses the potential health benefits and risks associated with drinking alcohol… specifically wine.

Obviously, alcohol in excess has definite health risks such as liver failure.  However, research shows that alcohol consumed in moderation may lower your chances of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.  Moderate amounts of alcohol also improves cognitive function which protects against dementia and Alzheimer’s and is associated with higher bone density which lowers risk of osteoporosis. 

Do the benefits of alcohol sound too good to be true?  Unfortunately, the benefits of alcohol come with caution… low to moderate alcohol consumption may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.  It’s important to weigh possible benefits to possible risks of moderate alcohol consumption and compare to your individual cancer risk (considering family history and lifestyle habits).

What is considered moderation? For women, approximately one drink per day. For men, about two drinks per day.

How much is a drink?   12 ounces beer, 5 ounces wine, 1.5 ounces of liquor

Is wine better to drink than liquor or beer?  It appears so but the research community has yet to come to a definite agreement on that question… Wine is high in antioxidants, with red wine containing higher amounts than white wine.  Red wine also contains a natural substance called resveratrol that may promote longevity and anti-inflammatory effects.  One study actually suggests that wine drinkers tend to lead healthier lives and purchase healthier foods such as fruits, vegetables, and low fat food items.  Beer drinkers in contrast tend to buy more cold cuts, chips, butter, and meats.

Are you a wine drinker?