Is red wine healthy for people with type 2 diabetes?

Every evening a glass of red wine improves your health
New research has shown that a glass of red wine for dinner in people with type 2 diabetes every day could help improve heart function and cholesterol levels. The study found that a regular glass of red wine at dinner helped to develop a healthier blood lipid profile. In addition, red wine drinkers have a greater amount of "good" cholesterol than, for example, people who drink bottled water or white wine.

The researchers presented the results of their research in the medical journal "Annals of Internal Medicine". For the purpose of the study, the researchers observed 224 subjects with type 2 diabetes. Many of those affected tend to be overweight and obese. The participants usually drank no alcohol. For the purpose of the study, the subjects were randomly given either 150 milliliters of water, white wine or red wine. The allotted drink was then consumed for over two years for dinner. All three groups of subjects did not experience significant differences in blood pressure, obesity, liver function or quality of life. However, sleep quality was improved in both wine groups compared to the water group.

Red wine improves blood lipid levels in type II diabetes. (Image: Igor Normann / fotolia.com)

Phenols in dark grapes help people with type 2 diabetes
Senior scientist Professor Iris Shai from the Ben Gurion University of Negev in Israel said that differences were found between red and white wines. Originally it was thought that the beneficial effects of wine are mainly caused by alcohol. But now it seems as if the good results of certain antioxidants (also called phenols) are triggered in dark grapes. The study also found that both red and white wines can help to improve the body's control of sugar levels. (As)