Research proves that 1 glass of wine a day can save lives

A study published by Italian and American researchers showed that wishes come true. Analyzing about 21, 000 people, they found that moderate wine consumers have better health and less chance of needing medical attention.

The habit, when combined with a traditional Mediterranean diet, pointed to health improvements in the volunteers analyzed. Those who abstained from alcohol consumption were 11% more likely to need to go to the hospital or see a doctor. This number was observed during 6 years of research, which also analyzed 13, 000 hospitalizations.

Although other research has already pointed out that moderate consumption of red wine is beneficial for heart function, the scientists stressed that the idea is not really to stimulate consumption, especially for non-drinkers. Dr. Ken Mukamal of Harvard Medical School said, "We're not saying that any teetotaler should start drinking to improve their health."

One of the study's authors, Simona Costanzo of the Mediterranean Neurological Institute, said: "We note that heavy alcohol consumption is associated with a higher likelihood of hospitalization, especially for cancer and alcohol-related illnesses. This confirms the harmful effect of alcohol consumption. On the other hand, those who drink in moderation have a lower risk of hospitalization for all causes and cardiovascular disease compared to abstainers and former drinkers. " The study was published in the journal Addiction.