It has often been wondered why people in the Mediterranean seem to live longer and healthier lives than many of their counterparts around the world.  The answer may just lie in what they drink rather than just genetics.

A number of studies have been documented which highlight the health benefits of popping a cork and enjoying a glass of wine a day, particularly red wine. Red wine provides much more resveratrol compared to white, which makes it healthier for you than white wine, beer and spirits.  Some of the benefits listed include reduces heart problems, lowering blood pressure, promoting longevity and reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In fact moderate drinkers are less at risk than non-drinkers.

Some university studies have also found that much of the brain decline experienced in later years can be avoided with moderate wine drinking.  Even cases of cataracts were less in moderate drinkers than non-wine drinkers.

Moderate amounts of alcohol can raise your good cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol) and thin your blood. However it is not meant to be abused, anything in excess is not good for you.

So the next time you reach for the bottle of wine, you don’t have to feel guilty, it’s good for your health.