🍷 French paradox

The French paradox is an old disputed idea that red wine protects the French from heart disease. It is credited to scientists who noticed that France has plenty of rich food yet relatively little heart disease. The explanation was sought in red wine.

The paradox was linked with resveratrol, a compound in the skins of dark grapes. It was supposed to protect blood vessels. But later studies did not confirm that the amount of resveratrol in wine is enough to help. Other causes, such as lifestyle, diet and different ways of counting, could also explain the difference. Today the idea remains disputed.

The French paradox belongs to the topic of alcohol and health. The World Health Organization notes that no amount of alcohol is known to be safe for health. So taking up wine for the heart's sake is not advised. The best ways to protect the heart are a healthy diet, activity and not smoking. This text is for reference.