Healthy Diets That Include Wine

It's a new year, and many of us are thinking about making healthy changes to our diets. If you're looking for some healthy diet options for January, and would still like to include a bit of wine, we'll offer some ideas to get you started:

Wine can be a delicious and enjoyable part of a healthy diet, but it's important to choose the right types of wine in moderation. Here are a few recommendations for the best wines to go with a healthy diet:

1. Dry red wines: Red wines that are dry (meaning they have low residual sugar) are typically lower in calories and have the added benefit of containing antioxidants. Look for dry red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Merlot.

2. Dry white wines: Similar to dry red wines, dry white wines are also lower in calories and can be a good choice for a healthy diet. Look for dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio.

3. Sparkling wine: Sparkling wine can be a great option for a healthy diet because it's lower in calories compared to other types of wine. Just be sure to choose a dry sparkling wine and enjoy it in moderation.

It's important to remember that all types of wine should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. The American Heart Association recommends no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.

In addition to choosing the right type of wine, it's also important to pair your wine with healthy food choices. Choose foods that are high in nutrients and low in added sugars and unhealthy fats. Here are a few ways to start the year off right:

1. Eat more vegetables: One of the easiest ways to improve your diet is by increasing your intake of vegetables. Aim for at least five servings of vegetables per day, and try to include a variety of different types and colors. Roast, steam, or sauté your vegetables for a quick and easy side dish, or add them to soups, stews, and casseroles.

2. Incorporate more plant-based proteins: Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu are a healthy and sustainable source of protein. Try adding them to soups, stews, and salads, or use them as a base for veggie burgers or veggie balls.

3. Choose whole grains: Whole grains are a good source of fiber, which can help with weight management and digestion. Look for whole grain options like whole wheat bread, brown rice, and quinoa, and try to incorporate them into your meals and snacks.

4. Limit added sugars: Added sugars are a common source of empty calories in many processed and packaged foods. To reduce your intake of added sugars, try to choose whole, unprocessed foods as much as possible, and read labels to check for added sugars in products like cereals, snack bars, and beverages.

5. Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for overall health, and water is the best choice for hydration. Aim for at least eight cups of water per day, and try to limit sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice.

By incorporating these healthy diet options into your routine, and by choosing the right types of wine and pairing them with healthy foods, you can enjoy wine as part of a healthy and balanced diet. 

 Cheers to good health!