You may or may not have heard about the 'French Paradox'. This finding shows that the French have a lower incidence of coronary disease as we find in the United States, despite the rich, high fat foods found in French cuisine. Many experts attribute this to the regular consmption of wine in the French diet.

Some medical studies have shown that an occasional glass of wine can reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. Moderate wine consumption can reduce the risk of death by cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancer. Other diseases may also be reduced by moderate wine consumption, and may very well increase one's life expectancy.

Studies are still being conducted on the health benefits of a glass of wine. Wine contains flavanoids, anti-oxidants that help to prevent free-radicals from damaging cells. One in particular helps to prevent hardening of the arteries. Wine also contains a substance called reservetrol. This substance has been shown to boost the immune system, block cancer, and protect against cardiovascular diseases.

These substances are found in all wine, but there are more in red wine than in white wine. The reservatrol and flavanoids are present in the grape skins and stems. When white wine is made, the grapes are pressed, and the juice is removed and fermented to make the wine. With red wines, the grapes are pressed, and the juice sits for a while with the grape skins and stems still present. Because of this, the grape juice has a chance to leach more of the flavanoids and reservatrol from the grape skins. So, red wines will have a higher concentration of anti-oxidants than white.

The alcohol content present in wine can have some benefits as well. Moderate consumption of alcohol can raise the level of HDL, or good cholesterol, and thin out the blood. Keep in mind, this is moderate consumption of alcohol, not heavy consumption. So this isn't an excuse to go out and get drunk.

So, what does this mean for you?

If you consume a glass or two of red wine a day, it can help to reduce your risk of coronary disease and cancer, and increase your lifespan. Keep in mind though, that there are some instances in which you should not drink wine, or any other alcoholic beverage. You may have certain medical conditions that may be made worse by alcohol. Certain medications, as well, should not be taken with alcohol. So, while wine may be beneficial, there are also circumstances in which it can be harmful, so consult your doctor first.

So, if you can have wine, go ahead and pour yourself a glass and enjoy. Wine will not only enhance your meal, but it can also improve your health, and help you to live a longer life. Enjoy!