Scientists of the University of Exeter said that the secret of youth lies in the moderate use of red wine and chocolate.
With the coming of age of DNA strands in our cells gradually lose their protective telomeres, which act like the plastic tips on shoelaces. Observations have shown that wine and chocolate help to rejuvenate old cells.
A team of scientists in the laboratory analyzed compounds based on the chemical substances found in red wine, dark chocolate, red grapes and blueberries. These foods are rich in flavonoids, which are known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Within a few hours of treatment old cells began to divide, they observed longer telomeres.
Scientists hope that this discovery will make a breakthrough in the fight against aging.
Representatives of the University of Texas believe that a glass of wine or bottle of beer at night can reduce the risk of premature death by 50%. Moderate alcohol consumption (up to seven bottles per week for women and 14 for men) significantly reduces the risk of death from heart disease. Some scholars associate the alcohol with the increased danger of the formation of certain types of cancer, but experts say that the benefits of alcohol consumption to cardiovascular system «clearly outweigh» the minor risks.
However, this statement contradicts the statement of the medical expert from the UK, Sally Davis. She claims that a safe level of alcohol consumption does not exist.
