It is important to be able to enjoy what you love while still being health conscious. For a long time, it has been generally accepted that one drink-a-day for women, or two-a-day for men, has been considered within the margin of responsibility. Red wine, specifically, is touted for the benefit of polyphenols and antioxidants which can have a positive effect on heart health. The origin of this belief is the French – who have what may be considered a reckless affection for cheese and other fatty foods. After all, the most important ingredient in the kitchen of any French Bistro is certainly the oil. Yet, the French population has a relatively low rate of heart disease when compared to many other nations. The tentative explanation for this “French Paradox” is their higher-than-average consumption of red wine, although many health experts today are weary to support the perceived benefits of a Mediterranean diet. It seems it is more widely accepted that any amount of regular alcohol consumption can negatively impact health. No matter which camp you find yourself in, though, it is nice to know that the option for low-calorie, low-alcohol wine is widely available. Known as “lifestyle wines,” this section of the market continues to grow and gain popularity as the world becomes more conscientious of what they consume and more anxious due to the constant barrage of professionals that frown upon what they choose to enjoy. Sometimes the anxiety is worse than the consumption itself. After all, as they used to say – and plaster on ads – “More doctors smoke Camels than any other cigarette!” Quacks. It is hardly fair to give people grief over what they consume, especially from the perspective that alcohol consumption in any form is detrimental to your health. It is an age-old tradition, after all; one that some believe may have led to the development of the first farming techniques, and consequently, the first civilizations. That said, it certainly is best to keep alcohol consumption at a reasonable level. If you find yourself on a diet or wanting for something fun to sip on – and like having more than a single glass – lifestyle wines are a great way to go. Unfortunately, there is no cohesive way to search for these wines. Many winemakers today may offer a “lifestyle” wine within their portfolio, but the easiest way to find something that may be to your liking is to head down to your local liquor store and ask for a recommendation.
Cheers!
– Nick
