It is often believed that drinking wine in moderation can be good for your heart. Although it has long been debated whether red wine is a healthier choice than white wine, recent reports and research suggest both have their benefits and adverse effects.
According to news published by Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, the belief that red wine is healthier than white wine is based on limited data and speculative reports. Here is a breakdown of the impact of red and white wine on health.
Impact Of Red Wine On Health
One aspect that gives red wine the edge is that the skin of grapes is included in the fermentation of red wine. That’s what gives it its red colour, along with the dark red or black grapes used to make this wine.
According to data published in the Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, the skin of grapes contains several antioxidants which promote heart health and good cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of blood clots and bad cholesterol levels.
A study published in MDPI’s journal ‘Molecules’ stated that moderate red wine consumption may cause a decrease in certain cancers, and gallstones, and improve cognitive function. This is because they contain polyphenolic compounds, and drinking two glasses of wine daily may result in a longer and healthier life.
However, the Harvard news informed that the polyphenols in red wine may be more than in white wine, but are still less than in other compounds than dark chocolate or blueberries.
Impact Of White Wine On Health
White wine on the other hand is made from white grapes, or grapes whose skin has been removed before the fermentation process. This makes white wine lack the antioxidants that grape skin affords red wine.
Compared to red wine, white wine has slightly fewer calories, more carbohydrates, and lesser alcohol content. According to researchers from the University of Barcelona, white wine also has phenolics which provide protection against cardiovascular diseases and have anticarcinogenic effects. Even though this phenolic compound is not as high as red wine, its phenols have a higher antioxidant capacity than red wine.
Looking at the entire scenario, both red and white wine seem to have their benefits. However, keep in mind that alcohol is injurious to health. While having a glass or two of wine may boost your health, excessive consumption of alcohol can damage every aspect of your physical and mental health.