Red Wine & Gut Health: A Match Made in Heaven?

Just like I always say, a glass of wine a day keeps the doctor away. Just kidding! Honestly, though, while alcohol is not the best food for your gut health, if you must have a glass or two, make sure it’s red wine. A new study has found links between drinking red wine and healthier levels of good bacteria in their gut, as opposed to people who drink other types of alcohol.

Benefits of Red Wine

For years, researchers have looked at the health benefits linked to red wine. Overall, from the various types of alcoholic beverages available, red wine seems to win by a landslide. Recently, a review of studies showed that two glasses of red wine are linked to disease prevention and improved health.

Another study linked red wine with increased levels of beneficial bacteria in people’s gut. The study also found that those who drank red wine also experienced lower body mass index and lower levels of bad cholesterol.

Other studies have also found that red wine drinkers tend to have lower rates of heart disease or high blood pressure. However, the link might have to do with lifestyle factors instead of alcohol, according to the American Heart Association.

However, like many other wine-related studies, health claims are still a matter of debate. And of course, these claims are based on moderation, not excessive intake of red wine.

How Red Wine Helps with Gut Health

The latest study to link red wine with gut health found that red wine drinkers had a more diverse gut microbiome compared to non-red wine drinkers. Even when researchers look at differences in age, weight, diets, and socioeconomic status, the association was still evident.

While more research is needed, researchers believe the effects are due to wine’s polyphenols. Polyphenols are a chemical with antioxidants found in higher quantities in red wines. It’s thought that these chemicals work as fuel for the microbes present in our gut. These polyphenols are also found in chocolate, berries, and various fruits and vegetables.

So far, the study concluded that drinking red wine for at least two weeks is enough to have a positive effect on our gut health. However, alcohol consumption is still recommended to be done with moderation.

A Note from GR8NESS

While these findings seem promising, people shouldn’t start gulping red wine to improve their gut health. But, if you do indulge in the occasional glass of wine, make sure you choose red and don’t feel guilty about it. As always, if you have any health conditions that can be affected by alcohol, consult with your doctor before changing your drinking habits.