Wine and Women
It is believed that a moderate wine consumption can have beneficial health effects such as decreased rates of heart disease, especially in men. However, there is an overlooked difference in the definition of moderate consumption where women are concerned. Though studies differ somewhat in their definition, most consider that 'moderate consumption' of wine to produce a beneficial effect in women is about 1-4 glasses per day. Binge drinking (approximately greater than 5 drinks/day) has been correlated with a higher risk of death. It’s important to note, however, that other lifestyle choices such as a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, exercise and abstinence from smoking will more aptly prevent heart disease than wine intake.
Wine is believed to decrease ovarian cancer, but can increase the rates of breast cancer. Both effects are minimal, however. Some scientists believe that Reservatrol, an anti-oxidant found in the skin of some varietals of grapes (especially those originating in France) that is the ingredient responsible for the beneficial effects that wine seems to have in on cancer. However, because reservatrol has a structure similar to that of estrogen, it has the potential to increase the risk of breast cancer. This antioxidant is also thought to be responsible for wine’s beneficial effect on osteoarthritis.
Wine and pregnancy
Several studies suggest that alcohol use in women may lead to certain types of infertility. Once you are pregnant, the U.S. Surgeon General recommends that pregnant women and women who may become pregnant abstain from alcohol consumption in order to eliminate the chance of giving birth to a baby with any of the harmful effects of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), the full spectrum of birth defects caused by prenatal alcohol exposure.
However, it may be safe to resume a minimal amount of wine intake during breastfeeding. The risks of this should be discussed with your obstetrician and your child’s pediatrician.
 Tip: Health benefits of red wine
Many sources would agree that you shouldn’t start drinking wine if you don’t already do so, just to reap its health benefits. There are probably better ways to stay healthy. But if you do drink alcohol already, it may be better to drink red wine in small to moderate doses. No alcohol is the safest bet when you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
How are we doing in Northwest Brooklyn?
The drug-related hospitalization rate in 2003-2004 was similar (563/100,000) the rates in both Brooklyn (547/100,000) and New York City overall (595/100,000). The 2003-2004 death rate due to drugs in Northwest Brooklyn was also similar to the rate in both Brooklyn and NYC overall (9/100,000 vs. 10/100,000 in Brooklyn and NYC).
If you have heart disease or are at risk, you should see a cardiologist.
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