Could drinking mulled wine help with lowering your cholesterol levels? As the festive season is upon us, many people may be happy to learn that recent research shows that mulled wine may help reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
Mulled wine is a mix of red wine and warming spices. Red wine, in particular, contains a compound called Resveratrol, which research shows can help to slow down the body’s ageing process. It’s also good for the heart and keeping ‘good’ cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein in the blood. [1]
The ingredients added to Mulled Wine, such as Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger, Cloves, and citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, can give a vitamin and nutrient boost – essential for the immune system during winter.
Cinnamon, in particular, is also recommended as it has been shown to help lower cholesterols, and this can reduce any inflammation and swelling. [2]
While we suggest drinking mulled wine as a festive treat rather than an everyday staple, the studies show that the polyphenols found in red wine can have cardiovascular and heart health benefits for blood vessels and reduce blood clotting. [3]
‘How Do I Keep My Cholesterol Healthy?’
Contrary to popular belief, cholesterol itself is not the problem. Cholesterol plays an essential role in your body’s functioning and contributes to every membrane structure of every cell in your body. Your body also needs cholesterol to make hormones and Vitamin D.
That being said, here are some of our top nutrient recommendations to keep your cholesterol levels healthy…
Resveratrol
Studies have shown that Resveratrol influences cholesterol levels by reducing the effect of an enzyme that controls cholesterol production. [4] As an antioxidant, it may also decrease the oxidation of “bad” LDL cholesterol. LDL oxidation also contributes to plaque buildup in artery walls. [5]
Bergamot
Several studies show that Bergamot may help to reduce overall cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol. It may also help to increase “good” HDL cholesterol and potentially be an effective supplement to cholesterol drugs. [6]
Krill Oil
Krill Oil is clinically proven to lower triglyceride levels in the blood. It contains Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), two essential types of Omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to reduce triglycerides and inflammation that can harm the health of blood vessels.
It’s also been clinically proven to increase the omega-3 index from 4% to 8%, reducing the risk of factors relating to coronary heart disease by 30%. Using Krill Oil has also shown no increase in LDL “bad” cholesterol levels.
Research published in Pharmacy & Therapeutics found that a daily dose of 1 to 3 grams of Krill Oil lowered total cholesterol and triglycerides more effectively than regular fish oil. This krill oil (1 to 3 grams) is a standard daily dose. [7]
By taking the above nutrients as part of following a healthy diet and lifestyle that includes exercise and moving your body, you can help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels in the long-term.
References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5751192/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5067830/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2903024/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27085216/
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27144581/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6497409
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3875260/
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