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Four Tempting Benefits of Red Wine for Runners

Last Updated on April 17, 2023 by Amanda Bowden

Discover the Science-Backed Benefits of Red Wine for Runners

For many runners, a glass of red wine after a long run is a welcome reward. But did you know that red wine for runners may offer some surprising benefits beyond its taste?

1. Boosts Heart Health

Red wine contains compounds called polyphenols, which have been shown to have cardiovascular benefits. These compounds can help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure, which in turn can reduce the risk of heart disease. Regular consumption of moderate amounts of red wine has also been associated with a lower risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.

2. Improves Lung Function

Red wine consumption has been associated with improved lung function, which can benefit runners by increasing their oxygen uptake during exercise. A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that moderate white wine consumption was also associated with better lung function. So it’s not only red wine that can have some benefits!

3. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response to exercise, but chronic inflammation can lead to injuries and longer recovery times. Resveratrol is a powerful polyphenol present in high quantities in red wine. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. This could be especially beneficial for runners who are training for long distances and need to keep their bodies in top condition.

4. Red Wine May Improve Running Endurance!

A glass of red wine. Could red wine for runners really have benefits?
Image from Unsplash. Credit: Lefteris Kallergis

In a study, mice that were given resveratrol were able to run twice as far as mice that were not given the compound. While more research is needed in humans, this suggests that red wine could potentially improve endurance in runners.

Balancing The Benefits of Red Wine For Runners

Of course, it’s important to find a balance and not overdo it! Drinking too much red wine can have negative health effects, including liver damage and increased risk of certain cancers. It’s recommended that men limit themselves to two glasses of red wine per day, and women limit themselves to one glass per day.

In conclusion, red wine can offer some surprising benefits to runners, from improving muscle recovery to boosting heart health. So, next time you’re reaching for a glass of red after a long run, you can enjoy it knowing that it might just be helping your body recover and perform better.