Do you enjoy having a glass of wine with your dinner every now and then? Well, it turns out your supposed vice might actually endear several health benefits as well.
You’re probably already aware of the fact that wine helps in preventing breakouts, reduces risk of liver disease, dwindles cancer risks, lowers your cholesterol, regulates blood sugar level, lowers the risk of developing diabetes, and also aids in improving the functions of your brain, heart, and bones. In addition to all these preventative benefits, a new study has revealed that wine also helps in fighting against dental plaque, tooth decay, and gum disease.
The study found that wine has compounds known as polyphenols, which help in fighting dangerous bacteria in our mouth. Studies in the past have revealed that since these compounds are antioxidants, they help in protecting the body against harmful free radicals. Recent research suggests that they also improve your health by working with the good bacteria in your gut.
In the study, a comparison was made between the effects of two polyphenols, along with grape seed and red wine extracts, and their impact was studied on bacteria that stick to your teeth and gums and cause dental plaque, cavities, and periodontal disease. It was then found that while the wine polyphenols and extracts helped in reducing the ability of the bacteria to stick to the cells, the polyphenols, on the other hand, which were the caffeic and p-coumaric acids, proved to be more effective.
When the polyphenols are combined with an oral probiotic known as the Streptococcus dentisani, they work even better in fighting the pathogenic bacteria. Researchers said that there are some metabolites that are formed when the digestion of the polyphenols begins, and it’s what could be responsible for the antibacterial properties of wine.