Some may be surprised that according to some doctors, the answer is yes.
Dr. Weil, a pioneer for integrative medicine and creator of the anti-inflammatory diet/food pyramid, includes red wine in a healthy diet for those who enjoy it. (http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/PAG00361/anti-inflammatory-food-pyramid.html) Like with any indulgence, moderation is key.
Red vs. white wine
Why red wine? Red wine contains more resveratrol than white wine. Resveratrol is a polyphenol antioxidant that is found in the skin of grapes. The process of making red wine includes the skins for a longer period of time thus increases the amount of resveratrol. According to Mayo Clinic, resveratrol may help prevent damage to blood vessels, reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, and help reduce inflammation & blood clotting. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/red-wine/art-20048281
If you do not consume alcohol today, it is not recommended to start drinking for the benefits of resveratrol. Besides grapes, resveratrol can be found in naturally in blueberries, mulberries, peanuts, and dark chocolate.
What about sulfites in wine?
We get asked a lot about sulfites in wine. Is there a wine with zero sulfites and the answer is technically no. Sulfites can be naturally occurring or can be artificially added in as a preservative and stabilizer. When added, typically as sulfur dioxide in wine, people may have some sensitivity to higher amounts.
According to the USDA, you will find two different types of organic labels on wine. The first is “Organic” and in order to have the label there must be no sulfites added. The second label is “Made from 100% organic grapes”. To have this label, sulfites can be added to 100ppm. This is still lower than other wines. To see USDA labeling requirements: http://blogs.usda.gov/2013/01/08/organic-101-organic-wine/
Dr. Weil states that the small amounts allowed in organic wines, up to 100ppm, should not be a concern unless you have asthma. “Sulfites can cause constriction of the airways and precipitate an asthma attack”, according to Dr Weil.
Check with your local liquor store for organic wines.
If you are worried about added sulfites and sensitivity, make sure to read label on processed foods. Below is just a few that may contain sulfites.
- Soup mixes
- Canned vegetables
- Pickled foods
- Dried fruit
- Potato chips
- Beer and wine
- Vegetable juices
- Tea
- Many condiments
If you are trying to avoid sulfites, avoid these on ingredients labels:
- Sulfur dioxide
- Potassium bisulfite or potassium metabisulfite
- Sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, or sodium sulfite
