We always hear that antioxidants in wine are good for us. Then, should we concern about the antioxidants in wine? How do antioxidants help us stay healthy? To answer this question, we have to start from the beginning.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are molecules produced inside and outside our bodies that prevent or reduce damage to cells. Cell damage accelerates aging and disease, so these antioxidant molecules are important for survival. Basically, antioxidants prevent oxidative stress, which is associated with many life-threatening conditions. Oxidative stress occurs when there are fewer antioxidants in the body than reactive oxygen species (ROS—basically an imbalance of molecules and free radicals produced from oxygen molecules). A simple example is rows of dominoes, each representing a stable molecule. The ROS "tennis" rolls over and hits the first domino, destabilizing it, and falls to the next. Unless something intervenes and stops the destruction, the entire row will eventually fall. Antioxidants are like hands between dominoes. Thankfully, we can help our bodies fight this by supplementing with naturally sourced antioxidants and other sources.

How to find the antioxidants in wine?

Wine includes many antioxidants:

·  Quercetin, derived from the skins of grapes exposed to sunlight, boosts immunity and fights allergies. It is a tannin in wine.

·  Tannins come from grape seeds and peels, and several other tannin compounds to prevent microbial infection and protect DNA.

·  Proanthocyanidin condensed tannins can improve joint flexibility and blood circulation, prevent bacterial and viral infections, and resist allergies.

White wine also has antioxidants:

·  Glutathione protects against the damaging effects of toxic chemicals in the environment and helps prevent cancer.

·  Caffeic Acid can prevent heart disease and its associated kidney complications.

Incorporate wine antioxidants into your life

Although wine contains antioxidants, it is still an alcoholic beverage and should be consumed in moderation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends no more than one drink a day for women and two for men. If you choose to drink wine, remember that the most important benefit it brings us is enjoyment. After all, wine is a pleasure, not just about science and health.

Lydia Zhao POINT PLUME