Few things are as enjoyable as having a glass of red wine after a hard day at work. In fact, studies show that moderate consumption of wine has many health benefits. Among other things, it keeps your heart strong and prevents the onset of slowly developing diseases. But can a glass of wine a day keep memory loss away, too?
The jury is still out on this one. In the case of dementia, alcohol can be something of a double-edged sword. While a glass of alcohol can help regulate blood pressure, excessive use can also speed up the onset of memory loss. One study also warns that an increasing number of college students engage in binge-drinking. Because human brain develops until the age of 25, this can have lifelong negative consequences.
Wine as a Way to Relax?
Can a glass of wine a day keep memory loss away if it relaxes your mind and body? Not exactly. Alcohol actually contributes to fatigue more than you realize. The proverbial nightcap can do more harm to your memory in the long run.
Because of how closely associated alcohol is with dehydration, regular consumption can lead to heart problems. In turn, these can lead to irregularities in blood pressure, which then affect the brain. Thus, it’s not the relaxing properties of wine that help your memory.
Moderation Is Key
Although most doctors refrain from recommending red wine as a way to improve your health, they do admit that consuming it in small quantities often shows positive results. Red wine is rich in powerful plant compounds and antioxidants. These include resveratrol and proanthocyanidins, which can help prevent heart disease and cancer.
So, can a glass of wine a day keep memory loss away? While some research suggests that it can, some studies strongly advise against it. But if you’re one of those people who enjoy their red wine, you can still have it. Just make sure to keep your daily dose at one glass and don’t consume any other alcoholic beverages.
