How Red Wine Prevents Stroke Damage
By: Charlotte Ames
Updated: April 21, 2010
Researchers say they've discovered how red wine may prevent brain damage caused by a stroke.
Earlier studies have shown that people who drink wine in moderation have a lower incidence of stroke and other forms of heart disease. Now scientists at John Hopkins University say they've found out why that may occur. It involves resveratrol, a compound in the skins and seeds of red grapes.
They fed mice a single dose of it, then induced a stroke in the animals. They found that mice who'd received the compound suffered signficantly less brain damage than the ones who hadn't received it.
Still, the study author says it's too early to suggest that people start taking resveratrol supplements and that drinking alcohol carries risks, along with potential benefits.
Earlier studies have shown that people who drink wine in moderation have a lower incidence of stroke and other forms of heart disease. Now scientists at John Hopkins University say they've found out why that may occur. It involves resveratrol, a compound in the skins and seeds of red grapes.
They fed mice a single dose of it, then induced a stroke in the animals. They found that mice who'd received the compound suffered signficantly less brain damage than the ones who hadn't received it.
Still, the study author says it's too early to suggest that people start taking resveratrol supplements and that drinking alcohol carries risks, along with potential benefits.
