Scientists have long suspected that red wine is protective against heart disease. About 50 years ago, scientists identified the concept of the French paradox.
The French have the lowest heart disease rate in the world yet eat very rich diets. The French drink a lot of red wine, which is thought to protect the heart.
Researchers from the Czech Republic, in a study on 146 healthy adults, found that both red and white wine reduced the risk of heart disease but only when accompanied by exercise. In their study, they found that drinking wine and exercise reduced blood cholesterol and increased heart-healthy HDL cholesterol.
Even more reason to enjoy that glass of wine--as long as you exercise too.