Some recent studies have highlighted the dangers of consuming too much alcohol, with recent research from the University of Rochester showing that binge drinking can lead to clogged arteries.
However, scientists are more positive about the effects of drinking in moderation in fact, a new study suggests that the practice could actually protect your heart health.
Findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicate that having one to two drinks per day could boost a persons levels of omega-3 fatty acids in plasma and red blood cells.
In particular, red wine was found to be especially good at increasing these protective fatty acids by acting as a trigger.
Some positive effects were also noted in moderate beer and spirits drinkers; however, the European scientists propose that the polyphenols in red wine may be the key.
“People drinking moderate amounts of alcohol, one drink a day for women and two for men, had higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in plasma and red blood cells independently of their fish intake,” concluded lead author Romina di Giuseppe.
Some research has explored the possibility of including polyphenols in nutritional supplements, so that more people could benefit from their health qualities.