Wine is good for your health.
Even if you are not a wine lover, many people probably hold this image of wine.
Numerous theories about wine and health have been proposed, starting with the "French Paradox," but among them, there is one theory drawing particular attention.
That is the "longevity theory."
Clear results have not yet been established, but if this theory were true, it would mean that people who go through life with wine can live longer.
Here, let us explore the longevity theory of wine.
The Sirtuin Theory
When it is said that wine may be linked to health, it is said that most of the effects are due to polyphenols.
For example, anti-aging is known to be related to the antioxidant effects of polyphenols contained in wine, and there are even theories suggesting that benefits can be expected in protecting the vascular endothelium.
Amid this, a theory that became a hot topic in recent research is the "Sirtuin theory."
To put it more simply, it is essentially a longevity theory.
What kind of relationship does wine have with longevity?
It Affects Sirtuin Genes, But...
First, what relates to longevity are indeed the polyphenols contained in wine.
Strictly speaking, the compound involved is "resveratrol," a type of polyphenol compound found in red wine, and it was discovered that this activates sirtuin genes (longevity genes).
Sirtuin Genes and Resveratrol
First, organisms such as yeast, roundworms, and fruit flies possess a sirtuin gene called Sir2; while usually inactive, it is famous for being activated under starvation conditions (as well as calorie restriction) and fulfilling the function of extending lifespan.
According to research, when yeast was given resveratrol, its lifespan was extended by 70%.
Furthermore, it is said that similar results have been obtained in fruit flies.
In fact, humans also possess the Sirt1 gene, which performs a function similar to Sir2, leading to hopes such as, "Could consuming red wine wisely extend our healthy life expectancy...?"
Is There... an Effect on Humans?
Now, if resveratrol contained in red wine could extend lifespan, nothing could be more wonderful.
Indeed, in recent years, claims like "If you want to live long (or stay young), stay hungry!" have become popular, and this is known to be related to the activation of sirtuin genes through fasting.
In other words, it is only natural that some people would think, "Might I live even longer if I prolong fasting periods while also enjoying red wine?"
However, unfortunately, the amount of resveratrol generally contained in red wine is insufficient to activate sirtuin genes; apparently, one would need to consume around 10 full bottles. (Perhaps about 8 bottles for Pinot Noir, which is high in resveratrol?)
At that rate, longevity is completely out of the question...
Resveratrol Is a Notable Component
Although we cannot conclude that "drinking red wine brings healthy longevity," health benefits can indeed be expected from resveratrol itself.
For instance, it is well known for preventing diabetes, activating nitric oxide synthase, and promoting angiogenesis.
In addition, it is expected to bring positive effects that, in a sense, could ultimately lead to a longer life, such as suppressing visceral fat accumulation and increasing the number of cells expressing oxytocin receptors—often referred to as the amygdala's love hormone.
Drink in Moderation...
Wine and longevity.
While it is certainly an intriguing topic, there is no doubt that it remains an area requiring much more research.
Naturally, whether red or white, wine is alcohol, so drinking excessively is 100% harmful.
On the other hand, in moderate amounts, it is undeniably an alcoholic beverage through which one can enjoy the various aforementioned health benefits.
Drink in moderation.
No matter what wonderful health benefits are announced, let us continue to enjoy wine while always keeping that in mind.
References
"The Secrets of Wine Written by a Scientist" by Kenichi Shimizu