Peach Connection

Red wine is a particularly rich source of antioxidants called flavonoid phenolics. Scientists believe the antioxidants reduce the risk of coronary heart disease in several different ways. First, antioxidants reduce the production of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (commonly known as the "bad" cholesterol). Antioxidants also boost high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (commonly known as the good cholesterol). Finally, antioxidants also reduce blood clotting. These three processes are essential to keeping a healthy heart.

Red wine has not only been found to improve heart health. One study found that the antioxidant resveratrol, which is ubiquitous in the skin of red grapes, may restrain tumor development in some cancers. Studies have also indicated that resveratrol aided in the formation of nerve cells, which is believed to be helpful in the treatment of neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

Although opinions vary, Cabernet Sauvignon has been agreed upon as the most antioxidant concentrated wine of the red wines. Pinot noir, Red Zinfandel, and Shiraz are three reds that closely follow. Even though health benefits have been proven, you still want to consume red wine in moderation. One glass a day is a sufficient amount of wine to gain the total benefit of what this grape derived indulgence has to offer.

So, enjoy! You can put your lips to that glass and know you are doing your heart a favor; and that makes wine that much sweeter!