September 7, 2012

Non-alcoholic red wine may reduce blood pressure

Alcoholic drinksDrinking non-alcoholic red wine every day could reduce blood pressure, according to a new study.

Researchers looked at what happened to blood pressure in a group of 67 men who were at high risk of heart disease. Each man drank alcoholic and then non-alcoholic red wine every day for a 4-week period.

They found that, whilst drinking the alcoholic red wine, the men had very little reduction in blood pressure. However, when the men drank the non-alcoholic red wine their blood pressure was reduced, potentially lowering their risk of heart disease and stroke.

Both versions of the red wine contained the same level of polyphenols, an antioxidant that lowers blood pressure.

Our Senior Cardiac Nurse Ellen Mason said: “This is an interesting study, especially if you are teetotal. However, the research looked at results over a short period of time and in a small number of men who were at high risk of heart disease.

Sadly, looking after your blood pressure can’t be solved by a popping a cork.

“Before we can reach any conclusions, we need to see much larger studies involving a wider range of people, including women, done over a longer period of time.

“Sadly, looking after your blood pressure can’t be solved by a popping a cork. Being physically active, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best ways to keeps yours healthy.”

The research was published in the journal Circulation.

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