What Red Wine Can Do To Your Gut and Your Overall Health

Introduction

The balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract is vital to one's overall health. This system includes significant organs such as the stomach, intestines, and esophagus.

People worldwide have compromised their gut health due to lifestyle and environmental factors. Some of these include stress, diet changes, and the misuse of antibiotics. An imbalanced microbiome can affect metabolism, nutrient absorption, and digestion.

Red wine has been a part of various religious and cultural events held throughout the world for hundreds of years. Wines made from fermented and crushed grapes have varying shades of color.

Red wine is high in polyphenols and resveratrol, which can help promote metabolism and provide energy faster. One glass of wine can help boost digestion and improve one's overall health.

Benefits of red wine

Increases digestive juice secretion

The salivary glands are stimulated by red wine, which can help initiate the digestion process. It also triggers the release of enzymes and gastric juices, which helps break down food and create hydrochloric acid and other nutrients.

 

Promotes the growth of good gut bacteria

There are trillions of bacteria and fungi in the human gut microbiome. An imbalance between the beneficial and the harmful microbes can lead to various health conditions, such as heart disease and high cholesterol. Dark grapes contain polyphenols, which can help boost the diversity of the gut microbiome.

Drinking red wine can help boost the bifidobacterium in the gut, which is a vital component of the digestion of lactose. This probiotic helps maintain the proper level of lactase enzymes produced by the body when lactose is digested. It can also stimulate the production of vitamins B and K and prevent mold and yeast growth.

Protects the Digestive System From Harmful Chemicals

Red wine also converts harmful chemicals produced during digestion into less toxic substances. The skin of dark grapes, used in the fermentation process, contains compounds that can stimulate the release of nitric oxide, which helps improve the digestion and absorption of this chemical in the bloodstream. It can lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

 

Reduces or eliminates stomach infections

A balanced gut microbiome can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and pathogens. Each year, around 37.2 million people visit the doctor due to various digestive issues, such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation. Drinking wine can help improve the health of these individuals.

Makes Your Teeth Healthy

The presence of bacteria in one's mouth can lead to various oral health problems, such as bad breath and cavities. Although brushing and flossing help prevent these conditions, red wine can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

According to a new study, grape polyphenols can help lower bacteria levels in the gum tissue. Researchers are currently working on creating wine-inspired toothpaste and mouthwashes that contain antioxidants, which could help people with bad breath.

What You Need To Know Before Drinking Red Wine

Although red wine can help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, it should be consumed sparingly due to its alcohol content. According to researchers, men should drink about a couple of glasses of wine daily, while women should drink about a cup. A study suggests that drinking alcohol excessively could trigger depression.

Like other alcoholic drinks, wine can also increase the risk of chronic diseases such as liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and diabetes. Drinking a high amount of alcohol can weaken the gastrointestinal system and worsen symptoms of digestive issues. In addition, drinking on an empty stomach can cause distress.

Conclusion

Modern researchers have pointed out the health benefits of wine, but the advice to consume it in moderation should be followed. The gut is a vital organ responsible for controlling the body's various physiological functions, and too much alcohol can negatively affect it.

A glass of wine can help nourish and improve your microbiome, and it's also beneficial to maintain a healthy diet. Red wine is best served with a protein meal and healthy fats to get the most benefit from it.