Healthier You
A better pick than fizz, this spicy tipple is packed with nutrients
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WORDS: SAMANTHA WOOD.
It’s time to ditch the prosecco and opt for something with a slice of winter wellbeing this Christmas.
Mulled wine has long brought on the festive feels, but its origins are steeped in medicinal benefits.
Romans first heated red wine as a means of defending their bodies against the harsh winter months and, as its popularity continued throughout the Middle Ages, various spices were added to avoid sickness.
This could mean that a glass or two over the festive season is good for us – so, what are you waiting for?
Bottoms up!
1 YOU’RE LESS LIKELY TO CATCH A COLD
Vino tinto, the main ingredient of mulled wine, is packed full of antioxidants, polyphenols and flavonoids, all which are immune boosting. ‘Flavonoids have antiviral properties, which means they can help build up your immune system and, in theory, keep those winter colds at bay,’ says Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy*. Citrus fruits added to the wine amp up the vitamin C content and many of the traditional spices thrown in also have warming, antiviral powers – brilliant at staving off colds and flu.
2 IT COULD MAKE YOU GASSY
Mulled wine contains many gutfriendly ingredients. ‘Cinnamon is good for gastrointestinal problems, nutmeg helps soothe indigestion and star anise contains anethole – a compound that helps to relieve tummy spasms and wind,’ says Dr Lee. Just don’t overindulge, as this may bring on the festive flatulence.
3 YOUR MEMORY MIGHT IMPROVE
Resveratrol, a chemical found in red grapes and therefore red wine, has been linked to slowing down memory loss.
‘Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that has been proven to boost memory and cognitive function, meaning that it could potentially help keep the brain healthy,’ says Dr Lee. ‘It has a
