Antioxidants in wine quick facts

Did you know the term ‘superfood’ technically dates back to 1915 and it was first used to describe wine?

Let’s have a look at why wine is considered to have some amazing health benefits (alcohol removed of course!)

Wine science geek speak

Polyphehenols are a group of chemical substances found in plants

Phytoalexins are antibiotics produced by plants when under attack by bacteria or fungi . 

Resveratrol is a phytoalexin produced naturally by several plants  

Resveratrol has been found to have beneficial cardiovascular effects. Resveratrol may reduce blood pressure, lowering the risk of heart attacks.  

Red wine and resveratrol  

In the making of red wines, the grape skins are crushed along with the pulp. But the skins are quickly separated out during the making of most white wines. Because red wine is fermented with grape skins longer than white wine, red wine contains more resveratrol.  

Other foods that contain some resveratrol include blueberries and cranberries. The amount of resveratrol in food and red wine can vary widely.

Quick fact

Resveratrol supplements have become a $30 million a year industry in America.

Keep in mind

There is limited and conflicting human clinical data demonstrating metabolic benefits of resveratrol

White wine & antioxidants, new research

There is new evidence to show that the pulp of grapes appears to be just as heart-healthy as the skin of grapes, as there are other types of antioxidants present in the flesh.

Grape seeds, a popular new skincare ingredient

Proanthocyanidins are found in grape seeds and skin. These are great for neutralizing oxidants and free radicals – depressing blood fat, and inhibiting the destruction of collagen.

And there you have that latest wine facts; some interesting knowledge to share at your next event!  

Cheers,

Sources

What makes something a superfood? - The Greatest, July 2016

Antioxidants in red wine – Roxyann.com, 2015

Resveratrol in grapes, supplements and other foods – Mayo clinic, 2014

Polyphenols in red wine – French scout.com, 2010

Lighter Wines Contain Heart-Helping Antioxidants Too, New Study Shows – WebMD, 2006