Several studies suggest a moderate amount of red wine lowers the risk of heart attack for people in middle age.

How much is “moderate”?

One drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. A drink is 4 oz. of wine.

What makes red wine heart healthy?

Red wine is rich is anti-oxidants which prevent harmful elements in the body from attacking healthy cells. In particular:

• Resveratrol, found in grape skins and seeds, increases HDL (“H”ealthy cholesterol); and prevents blood clotting. Prolonged contact of skins and seeds with the grape juice during the red wine making process means a high concentration of resveratrol.
• Flavonoids, helps prevent blood clots and plaque formation in arteries.

What about white wine?

It contains only a small amount of resveratrol because the skins and seeds are removed early in the white wine-making process.

Sorry, but …no! If you already drink alcohol, do so in moderation. But it is NOT recommended that you start drinking for health benefits. Alcohol can also increase your heart health risk because a) it can increase triglycerides (an unhealthy blood lipid) and b) it adds empty calories leading to weight gain.