Drinking red wine in moderation can be a source of pleasure as well as some health benefits due to its antioxidant content and heart-healthy tannins, but its health benefits are not so compelling that non-drinkers should begin drinking alcohol.
I rarely drink red wine myself, but it may be beneficial for some people. If you do drink, I recommend organic red wine, and limiting your intake to no more than a serving a day.
Resveratrol is an antioxidant compound derived from grape skin and found in red wine, and it's been discovered that it reduces the risk of diabetes, and that it extends lifespan in mice.
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To get a dose of resveratrol comparable to that given to the animals, however, you would have to drink far more wine than is realistic. Resveratrol supplements are available, but their safety and effectiveness have yet to be convincingly determined.
It's better to increase your resveratrol intake simply by eating more fruits with deep red and purple color, such as grapes, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cranberries.
-- With Marti Lotman
Andrew Weil, M.D., is Founder and Director, Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the College of Medicine, University of Arizona, and Director of Integrative Health and Healing, Miraval Resort. He is a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine, which combines conventional medicine with alternative approaches. He received his medical degree from Harvard University. His new book is True Food: Seasonal, Sustainable, Simple, Pure.

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