Why Red Wine is OK This Holiday Season
By Genevieve Cunnincham
The holidays often bring a ton of indulgences. We reach for a second helping or grab a quick piece of pie. While most indulgences are followed by some (probably justified) guilt, there is one indulgence that you may be able to experience completely guilt-free this holiday season. If you like to sip on an alcoholic beverage during the holidays, choose red wine and check out these reasons to feel zero guilt about the indulgence.
Red Wine is Thought to Be Good for the Heart
Red wine is thought to contain antioxidants that are good for the heart. If you suffer from heart disease, always ask your doctor first, but research suggests that a little red wine actually won't hurt. Those who enjoy light to moderate levels of red wine on a regular basis show signs of improved heart function and heart health. Is it a cure for heart ailments? Of course not! But it might be a delicious way to protect the heart from disease and repair damaged cells in the body over a period of time.
It Might Slow Memory Loss
While we generally associate alcohol with impaired brain function, a small amount of red wine may actually improve your memory. The same antioxidants that protect the heart do the same for the brain, so red wine may serve to enhance your memory over time. This is especially good news for those in the aging population, as research has shown an especially strong link between improved memory and red wine in this particular population of people.
The Bad Side
While there are plenty of benefits to using this as your alcoholic treat, there are some negative side effects as well. When in excess, red wine becomes just as dangerous as any other alcoholic drink. It can lead to alcoholism, weight gain, and a decrease in cognitive function. But keep in mind that this is when red wine is consumed in excess. If you stick to one glass or less per day, research still suggests that the benefits are in your favor.
If you want to indulge a little during the holidays, choose wisely. When it comes to picking a drink, reach for the red wine and enjoy sipping through the night. With the right choice, you can indulge without the guilt and may gain a few healthy benefits to boot.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropracti.