Mark Sisson reports in his blog Mark Sisson’s Daily Apple that wine consumption is again good for your heatlh.  The latest: that wine is a potent warrior in the fight against cavities.

 A new study out today confirms the antibacterial power of both red and white wine. Apparently, researchers have proven that wine destroys the bacteria responsible for cavities and throat infections. Interestingly, it’s not the alcohol that kills the germs, but rather acids in the wine.


It’s also important to note that in the study, "the isolated acids were more effective against the bacteria than the wines." (Web MD)

It’s also been reported that drinking wine can actually kill viruses and other harmful bacteria.  In addition to wine’s germ killing properties, according to the American Heart Association’s web site:

Research is being done to find out what the apparent benefits of drinking wine or alcohol in some populations may be due to, including the role of antioxidants, an increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol or anti-clotting properties.  … The best-known effect of alcohol is a small increase in HDL cholesterol.

The AHA is careful to caution that there are OTHER ways to gain the heart healthy effects of moderate wine consumption.  But when you combine wine’s positive effects for your heart WITH it’s germ killing properties…. it’s reason enough to lift your glass at dinner up to three times a week!