Tomorrow is World Health Day, and there is good news on the health front for wine drinkers from Neurology Now magazine.
Studies have observed that small amounts of wine increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good” cholesterol), and reduce fibrinogen, a protein involved in coagulation. Lower levels of fibrinogen reduce the likelihood of a blood clot, a cause of ischemic stroke.
An analysis of data from the long-running community-based Framingham Heart Study, published in the journal Stroke in 2006, found that wine may protect against atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by raising HDL levels and inhibiting low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad” cholesterol) in adults aged 60 to 69.
Neurology Now also reported on the Rotterdam Study of more than 7,900 people aged 55 and older, which suggested a link between light to moderate drinking (one to three drinks per day of any type of alcohol) and a reduced risk of dementia in that age group.
Also, the Northern Manhattan Study looked at 2,215 men and women with an average age of 69 and observed an association between moderate alcohol consumption and better cognitive performance.
In all studies, the key word is moderation. Also, an individual’s physical condition may render different results. If you have any qualms whatsoever about the role wine could play in your health, check with your doctor.
