Drinking red wine in mid-life could help protect against a number of health problems associated with aging a new report suggests.
Research published in Cell Metabolism has revealed that the chemical resveratrol, found in red wine, benefits health by warding off age-related illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, reduced motor co-ordination, cataracts and poor bone density.
According to the study’s authors, when resveratrol is given to mice, it induces beneficial gene activity patterns in multiple tissues similar to those caused by following a calorie restricted diet.
Commenting on the findings, Rafael de Cabo, of the National Institute on Aging, said: "From a health point of view, the quality of life of these mice at the end of their days is much better."
He suggested that resveratrol may be able to "extend productive independent life, rather than just extending life span" in older patients.
Previous studies have shown that reducing calorie intake by 30 per cent can delay the onset of age-related diseases.
