Avid wine-drinkers happily toast the periodic reports supporting the consumption of a few glasses of wine each week – or even a glass a day. So, will a glass of wine a day actually keep the doctor away? Research does indicate certain healthful benefits available to those who drink red wine in moderation – one glass a day for women, two for men. Red wine consumption may help protect against certain cancers and heart disease, and can have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and blood pressure. However, effects of excessive alcohol consumption can also be seriously detrimental to one's health.

Red wine contains multiple antioxidants which prevent harmful elements in the body from attacking healthy cells. Among them are catechin, also found in green tea, and saponins, also contained in olive oil and soybeans. Both play an important role in protecting against heart disease. Red wine also contains the antioxidant guercetin, which is being studied for its value in preventing lung cancer. Resveratrol, found in peanuts, blueberries and cranberries as well as red wine, is readily absorbed into the body and has been found to have multiple healthful benefits. In addition to helping in the prevention of heart disease, it has blood-thinning properties, which is important in preventing heart attacks and strokes.

The antioxidant resveratrol is also a phytoestrogen, bringing even more health benefits to those who enjoy the grape of the vine. It binds to estrogen receptors and may benefit certain conditions affected by a decrease in natural estrogen including menopause, breast cancer, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Consumption of red wine has even been linked to cancer prevention. In preliminary studies, resveratrol minimizes the DNA mutations that lead to cancer, induces death in cancer cells and blocks the formation of new blood vessels that "feed" tumors.

However, as with many things in life, moderation is the key. Side effects of excessive alcohol consumption include loss of coordination, slowed reflexes, insomnia, heartburn and high blood pressure. Liver cirrhosis as a result of long-term alcohol abuse is one of the ten leading causes of death in the United States. Osteoporosis, obesity and some cancers have also been linked to alcohol abuse. People with a family history of alcohol problems or pre-existing health conditions should not begin drinking red wine in an effort to receive the health benefits.

The next time you raise your glass, make a toast to your health – and certainly take note of how many glasses were raised that week.