Although sparkling wine has become increasingly popular in the US over the last few decades, some people still have no idea what it actually is and why they should drink it. Sparkling wines are made through the process of secondary fermentation where sugars and carbon dioxide are added to help create the bubbles that make them so appealing to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. These 10 benefits of sparkling wine are just a few reasons why you should definitely consider drinking it more often! Here’s to your health!
1) Helps Reduce Stress
Stress can cause weight gain, especially around your belly area. A study conducted by researchers at Oregon State University found that rats fed a high-fat diet supplemented with sparkling water had lower levels of abdominal fat and smaller waistlines than those who drank still water. The researchers speculate that carbonation may increase metabolism and decrease appetite—and may even promote a feeling of fullness. One more benefit? A little bubbly water provides staying power for your healthy meals!
2) No Sulfites in Champagne Means Less Likely to Feel Sick
There’s something about bubbles that makes sparkling wine less likely to have negative effects on your gastrointestinal tract, says Bowers. When you drink red or white wine, sulfites are released and have negative effects on stomach acid and can lead to heartburn. There are no sulfites in Champagne or other sparkling wines. Also, it is higher in alcohol than both white and red wine so it is slower to absorb into your bloodstream and gets you buzzed a bit slower.
3) Wine Every Night – Fights Depression?
Believe it or not, drinking a glass of wine every night could help fight depression. A study published in BMC Medicine found that resveratrol—an antioxidant found in grapes—can help fight depressive symptoms and can be used as a treatment for patients suffering from mild to moderate depression. And while you probably already knew that chardonnay makes you happier (maybe), sparkling wine is actually better at cheering us up because its bubbles feel like they’re gently massaging your body! Who knew?!?
4) Reduces Cancer Risks
It’s true that red wine has a few health benefits, but white wine is even better. Red wine can be linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and some cancers, but research suggests that white wine actually has more antioxidants and fewer tannins than its dark counterpart, making it healthier to drink. In addition, people who drank at least four glasses of white wine per week were less likely to develop heart disease or type-2 diabetes than those who abstained from alcohol altogether.
5) Prevents Hair Loss
Hair loss is usually a result of three things: genetics, damage, and stress. While genetics can’t be helped, protecting your hair from damage and reducing your stress level can help you prevent hair loss (or stop it from getting worse). One way to do that? Switch to sparkling rosé wine for dinner instead of chugging down glasses (or bottles) of vino. Champagne has numerous benefits for your body and brain, but did you know it may also aid in preventing hair loss?
6) Keeps Heart Healthy
An ounce of red wine every day can increase your HDL cholesterol levels, according to a study published in Nutrition Research. HDL, which is also called good cholesterol, works to take LDL—also known as bad cholesterol—out of your bloodstream and away from arteries. While you can get that same amount from eating three ounces of chicken or drinking one glass of milk, there are other heart benefits to tipping back a bottle or two: It’s been shown to decrease triglycerides by up to 30 percent!
7) Should You Try a Glass of Sparkling White Wine for Weight Loss?
In an average-size serving, sparkling wine is approximately 110 calories. While some people view alcohol as something they should avoid when trying to lose weight, a glass of fizzy wine can actually help you meet your daily calorie goals. It can help stave off cravings and prevent overeating at mealtime. Just be sure to keep your portion size in check (one serving is about 5 ounces). If you have more than one glass of sparkling white wine, remember that it’s smart to alternate with water and skip dessert.
8) Improves Memory
A study published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences & Social Sciences found that middle-aged women who drink moderate amounts of champagne improve their memory and brain function. (Chronic Champagne, anyone?) Interestingly enough, these effects were only linked to champagne; other alcoholic beverages did not have an effect. (No wonder Mad Men fans love Don Draper so much.)
9) Anti-Aging Properties
A 2009 study from researchers at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City showed that red wine has anti-aging properties. Researchers found that mice who consumed alcohol (specifically, red wine) had longer lifespans than those who did not consume any alcohol. The researchers suggested that resveratrol—an antioxidant compound found in grape skins and grape seeds—may be responsible for these longevity-boosting effects.
10) Is Drinking Sparkling Wine Good For the Teeth?
Research shows that drinking sparkling wine can be good for your teeth. A study published in The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that rats fed on bubbly had higher levels of a compound called cresol (which has antibacterial properties) than those who drank still wine. Cresol is thought to be behind not only bubbly’s alleged teeth benefits, but also its other claimed health perks including anti-aging, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial effects.
