December 2006 Can drinking wine make you live longer? any studies have found that the grapes in red wine contain healthy properties that protect against disease. The lower incidence of heart disease and longer life expectancy among the French have been widely reported as benefits of drinking red wine. But there’s more to the story. Research reported in the New England Journal of Medicine has shown that red wine’s benefits relate directly to low-to-moderate consumption, about a glass a day. Here are some other effects of alcohol consumption to be aware of: Excess alcohol contributes to high blood pressure and higher levels of triglycerides in the blood, which can lead to heart disease. Excess alcohol can diminish brain activity, reflexes and concentration, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents. Alcohol interferes with certain prescription medications, making them ineffective or even lethal. People with liver problems or high blood pressure should probably not drink at all. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before you start drinking red wine, even in moderation. And because alcohol can become addictive, it’s crucial to be cautious about the amount you drink. —Adapted from Focus on Healthy Aging newsletter   Cut to the chase…for a healthy diet (click) Can drinking wine make you live longer? (click) Kids will eat what’s put in front of them (click)   Front Page Feature | Interchange | Research Review | Elder Issues | Parenting On the Job | We Recommend | Home