Researchers from France observed in a study that red wine drinkers have increased HDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as the "good" cholesterol. This helps show some light on why red wine is believed to be protective against cardiovascular disease.
Researchers compared HDL cholesterol levels between 40 men who drink every now and then, those who are regular drinkers and those who are heavy drinkers. As alcohol consumption shot up, so did HDL levels. The researchers say this study supports many others that have shown, "an inverse relationship between regular and moderate alcohol consumption and the risk for myocardial infarction (heart attack)."This latest study is one of a long line of research to support the benefits of moderate drinking on heart health. Similar to the others, this study leaves a lot of unanswered questions. Researchers say the molecular makeup of the HDL was different in wine drinkers, but yet to find the actual reason.
In addition to studying drinking habits, doctors reviewed nutrition data, smoking history, blood pressure, and physical activity levels. More studies will be done to further understand how all of these factors may influence heart health.
