Reducing High Cholesterol by Drinking Wine
Reducing high cholesterol by drinking wine is feasible for some adults. Managing cholesterol levels will take a concerted effort on many fronts, including an examination by a physician and adjusting the daily diet. Many health care professionals note wine as an aid in the battle against "bad" cholesterol.
Fatty Substances Cause High Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol in the bloodstream is caused by the intake of fatty substances produced in the liver. Foods that are high in saturated fat increase the cholesterol in the body. Foods to avoid -- or reduce intake of -- when concerned about high cholesterol levels include egg yolks, fatty meats, whole milk dairy food and shellfish.
Family History Causes Increased Risk of High Cholesterol
Certain segments of the population are recognized to be more prone to developing high cholesterol problems. Adults with a family history of cardiac problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and smokers should be especially mindful of or monitoring cholesterol levels.
Red Wine's Health Effects on Heart Disease and Cholesterol
The study of the effects of red wine on both heart disease and in relation to high cholesterol has indicated some benefit in each area of physical health. Red wine can raise the HDL levels, which are considered "good" cholesterol, while decreasing LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, levels in the body. The intake of a daily glass of red wine for women and two glasses per day for men is also productive in decreasing the likelihood of forming blood clots. Drinking red wine on a daily basis can repair damage to blood vessels caused by the development of fat deposits.
Negative Effects of Red Wine Consumption
A downside of drinking red wine is a potential weight gain due to the caloric content found in alcohol and an increased risk of cancer when consuming alcohol in excess. The American Heart Association considers one glass per day an adequate amount for gaining positive benefits of red wine. A glass is typically considered to be four ounces of liquid. Adults can gain similar health benefits by increasing the intake of grapes in the daily diet. Most doctors don't advise non-drinking patients to begin a regime of daily red wine consumption. Adults who already consume alcohol in moderation are more likely to be advised by medical professionals to include a daily glass of wine into the diet. Stern warnings to decrease overall alcohol consumption generally come hand in hand when doctors suggest a red wine regimen.
Healthy Components Found in Red Wine
Red wine contains specific antioxidants known to battle bad cholesterol-causing elements in the bloodstream and arteries. Vitamin E is the primary element in red wine known to fight plaque and aid anti-coagulants in the bloodstream. Resveratrol, a chemical compound also present in red wine, is considered successful in fighting bad cholesterol. Balancing the intake of red wine with a healthy diet and low alcohol intake overall can benefit in heart disease and high cholesterol prevention. Discussing the addition of red wine into the diet with a physician before pouring a daily glass is highly recommended.
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