Red Wine Risks & Benefits

Over the years, much research has been done to confirm the claim that drinking red wine reduces risk of some health problems, most notably heart disease. There are many risks, as well as possible benefits, that come with consuming red wine every day.

Reducing Heart Disease

• Red wine contains flavonoids and antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

HDL Cholesterol

• HDL cholesterol works to clear a person's blood vessels and reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. Red wine, when consumed in moderation, is known to raise a person's HDL cholesterol level.

Drinking in Moderation

• The American Heart Association recommends that men should drink no more than two 4-ounce glasses of red wine per day and women should drink no more than one 4-ounce glass.

Risks

• Drinking large amounts of red wine, as with any other alcohol, comes with increased risk. The American Heart Association warns that those who drink excessively are more at risk for alcoholism, stroke, obesity, high blood pressure and accidents.

Healthy Living Practices

• The American Heart Association recommends that, in order to reduce risk of heart disease and other ailments, to eat healthily and get enough physical activity each day. Drinking red wine should not be a substitute for these healthy living practices.