Wine - is our friend, but deceit lives in it:
If you drink a lot -​ it becomes a poison,
If you drink a little - it’s a medicine.
Avicenna
Oenotherapyyyy
This statement highlights the dual nature of wine. It's not the fault of wine if a fool consumes it excessively and suffers the consequences.
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Oenotherapy, derived from the Greek words "oinos" (wine) and "therapia" (treatment), is a branch of clinical medicine that explores the properties of grape wines and their effects on the human body's organs and systems.
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Wine contains more than just alcohol and water. It is rich in polyphenols, minerals (such as iron, zinc, copper, and manganese), B vitamins, tartaric, salicylic, malic, and nicotinic acids, potassium and calcium macronutrients, flavonoids, tannins, and other beneficial compounds. The polyphenols, particularly found in grape skins and seeds, act as potent antioxidants. Through the maceration process, wines, especially red ones, become particularly abundant in these beneficial elements. Polyphenols not only enhance the body's overall resistance but also help slow down the aging process.
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Wine has positive effects on the cardiovascular system by improving blood circulation and preventing the formation of cholesterol. It also promotes the secretion of bile and gastric juice, aiding in the digestion of heavy foods. Recent research confirms that moderate wine consumption has a positive impact on kidney health and can even help prevent cancer.
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Additionally, wine exhibits powerful antimicrobial properties. For example, hot mulled wine with spices is known to alleviate early symptoms of a cold. Wine also has a relaxing effect on the nervous system, comparable to certain antidepressants. As many problems originate in our minds, it can be beneficial to alleviate stress in a timely manner with the help of this pleasant "medicine."
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It's important to consume wine in moderation, adhering to specific guidelines. For individuals with slow metabolic processes and catabolism, it is recommended to limit consumption to 1-2 glasses (120 ml per glass) per day. For those with accelerated metabolic and catabolism processes, the suggested limit is 2-3 glasses (120 ml per glass) per day.
In enotherapy, the therapeutic dosage is determined by the amount of pure alcohol per serving of wine and our body's ability to process it. On average, the liver requires approximately one hour to process one serving of alcohol. Therefore, it's advisable to savor wine slowly and enjoy its multifaceted aromas while being mindful of your consumption. Additionally, it's crucial to consider the pace and timing of consumption, alternating wine with water intake, and accompanying it with suitable gastronomic choices.