Semin Vasc Med 2004; 4(2): 173-186
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-835376
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA.

Drink to Prevent: Review on the Cardioprotective Mechanisms of Alcohol and Red Wine Polyphenols

Dylan W. de Lange1 , Albert van de Wiel2
  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center, Heidelberglaan, Utrecht, The Netherlands
  • 2Department of Internal Medicine, Meander Medical Center, Utrechtseweg 160, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
11 October 2004 (online)

Preview

Moderate alcohol consumption has convincingly been associated with decreased cardiovascular mortality in epidemiological studies and metaanalyses. This decreased mortality has been attributed to changes in lipid profiles, decreased coagulation, increased fibrinolysis, inhibition of platelets, increased nitric oxide, and antioxidant capacities of alcoholic beverages. Most of these laboratory and animal studies, as well as small intervention trials in human volunteers, have revealed many interesting mechanisms that contribute to the cardioprotective effects of alcohol, red wine, or red wine polyphenolic compounds. An update on putative mechanisms is presented in this review.

REFERENCES

Dylan W de LangeM.D. 

University Medical Center

Room F02.126, Heidelberglaan 100

3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands