Wine and Chocolates for a Healthy Heart on Valentine’s Day
Courtesy of Mayo Clinic – Valentines Treats for Heart Health
Want to show your sweetie how much you care this valentines day?
Opt for a gift of red wine and dark chocolate. Not only are these treats delicious, but when consumed in moderation, they may also improve the health of your loves one’s heart.
Wine contains antioxidants called polyphenols, and red wine contains more polyphenols than does white wine. Research suggests that the polyphenols in wine help protect the lining of the blood vessels in your heart. For those who don’t drink alcohol, a small glass of grape fruit with sparkling water is an alternative treat.
Dark Chocolate also is rich in polyphenols, particularly in those called flavonoids. Recent research has shown that eating small amounts of dark chocolate regularly may help lower the levels of blood vessel inflamation, lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.