Good news for all of you wine lovers - there’s a national day for drinking it!

Wine has been a staple drink in human culture from as far back as around 7000BC, with the first known wine-tasting event being held by the King of France back in 1224. The fermented grape juice now comes in so many different varieties that it’s not hard to see why it remains one of our favourite beverages to this day. But besides the fun (and tears) that comes with drinking wine, there are also several health benefits that you might not have realised!

•  1. It’s high in antioxidants:

Wine, red especially, is enriched with antioxidants. Darker grapes are higher in antioxidants like resveratrol, epicatechin, catechin, and proanthocyanidins. Of these, resveratrol and proanthocyanidins are mainly responsible for keeping you healthy. Wine is also high in polyphenols, which are not only antioxidants, but also antimutagens and free-radical scavengers.

• 2. It can reduce the risk of cancer:

Research has shown that drinking red wine in moderation can reduce the likelihood of some types of cancer, including ovarian, prostate and colon cancers. It is thought that resveratrol has an effect on human cancer cells, in that it disrupts the key action of proteins aiding cancer cell growth.

• 3. It can regulate blood sugar

Resveratrol has also been shown to control blood sugar levels in diabetic people. Studies have shown that subjects who took 250mg of resveratrol supplements once daily, for three months, had lower blood glucose levels than those who did not.

• 4. It can lower bad cholesterol and promote a healthy heart:

Certain types of red wine, such as rioja, are made from high-fibre Tempranillo grapes which are known to lower bad cholesterol. Not only does it regulate cholesterol levels, but the polyphenols found in red wine also help to prevent clotting in blood vessels, promoting good heart health. Additionally, resveratrol also has a positive effect on cholesterol and systolic blood pressure. Though these effects of wine are positive, it’s important to note that wine is only beneficial in moderation, as too much alcohol is damaging to the heart.

• 5. It’s good for your memory

Moderate consumption of wine has also been shown to benefit your memory, especially in regards to Alzheimer’s. Research shows that resveratrol inhibits the formation of beta-amyloid proteins, which form plaques in the brain that eventually lead to Alzheimer’s. Though it most definitely is not the cure, it might help you remember where you put your car keys!