Today as the French celebrate Bastille Day, it seems fitting to discuss a health-related topic de français. The French Paradox is the quippy term given to the finding that despite high intake of saturated fat those living in France have a lower rate of cardiovascular disease.
If you like to drink red wine, it was this scientific discovery that you have to thank for your doctor giving you the green light to have a glass or two a night as a means to promote your heart health. That’s because much of the initial French Paradox research spotlight focused on the potential benefits of this libation, cited as playing a large role in the country’s culture and foodways.
Since then researchers have discovered many unique phytonutrients in red wine, the most talked about being resveratrol. This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; in test tube and animal research it has also been found to promote the health of both vascular and heart cells. Additionally, there is currently a lot of research attention being paid to its suggested anticancer and anti-aging benefits. Yet, resveratrol isn’t the only beneficial phytonutrient in red wine; others, such as oligomeric procyanidins, have also caught researchers attentions for their ability to promote cardiovascular health.
Yet, is red wine truly the fountain of youth, the reason that the French have that wellness je ne sais quoi? Read More…
