At one time or another we have all uttered those words -To Your Health- as we raised our glasses in a salute to a special person. It is a well known fact that drinking wine, both red and white varieties, in moderation will be beneficial to your health especially when you are dealing with the heart.

Many have asked -What effect does wine have on me-. To answer that question we must first look into the composition of the wine itself. Research has proven that red wine have a high amount of flavonoids and that these flavoniods will benefit a person?s health. These flavonoids are rich in antioxidants and when combined with the body form a front against both viruses and carcinogens. The end result is that your body is better able to fight off certain cancers and help prevent heart disease.

Of course like anything else, moderation should be maintained, you do not have to get “tipsy”, everyday to get the health benefits of wine by the flavonoids in red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Syrah and Pinot Noir are the highest concentrations of antioxidants and flavonoids. A 16th Swiss physician wrote, “Wine is a food, a medicine and a poison – it is just a question of dose”.

It is said by many providers of health that limiting yourself to one or two four ounce glasses of wine per day if you are a man, and if you are a women only one four ounce glass per day, will give you the health benefits you want. If you are of the fairer sex do not get after me, I am only the messenger.

The incidents of heart disease in France is said to be among the lowest throughout the world. Many regions in France are perfect for growing grapes and making wine. The French population has been doing this for ages and have been able to enjoy the benefits from the wine. The wine regions in France produce wines that are tannic and contain high levels of procyandin (an antioxidant). These levels tend to be higher that other wine areas throughout the world.

Not all wines are high in these flavonoids. Wines that are dry such as Zinfandels and Merlots are lower in these flavoniods. Having said that, they are still higher than white wines. But, do not let that stop you from enjoying them as they will provide you with health benefits providing you drink them in moderation.

There are plenty of health benefits of wine which should not be forgotten. Of course the main benefits of wine include the absolute joy of laying around with great friends and a great glass or two of wine.