A glass of red may keep arteries loose
By Ben Harder
Wine dissolves behavioral inhibitions, but a biochemical inhibition may underlie some of red wine’s benefits to the heart.
Moderate intake of alcoholic beverages reduces a person’s risk of heart disease. Some studies have suggested that red wine has an added benefit. If true, what makes reds special?
A clue comes from endothelin-1 (ET-1), a chemical produced by cells in the walls of blood vessels. High concentrations of ET-1 can constrict blood vessels, a condition that can contribute to heart disease.