Extensive studies have shown that red wine consumption is associated with less cardiovascular mortality in the general population and diabetic individuals. The ability of red wine to improve insulin sensitivity is a key cardioprotective mechanism.
The phrase "insulin sensitivity" refers to the ability of cells to accept glucose. Insulin is a transporter and regulator of glucose. After glucose is taken up by cells, insulin has completed its task. Circulating insulin levels are then lowered. The glucose is used by the cell for energy.
If cells are not receptive (sensitive) to insulin . . . cells will lack (glucose)energy/fuel. Circulating insulin levels will remain high and too much glucose will say in the bloodstream, which contributes to high cholesterol and triglycerides. Increased insulin also causes stored body fat.
A 2004 study conducted in Italy explored the relationship between insulin sensitivity and red wine consumption. The study analyzed two groups of individuals with type 2 diabetes. One group consumed red wine for two weeks. The other group did not consume red wine. The study group with type 2 diabetes, that consumed red wine, improved insulin mediated whole body glucose disposal by 43%. Insulin mediated whole body glucose disposal did not change in the non wine drinking group.
Two weeks of red wine consumption markedly attenuated (lessened) insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics.
Source:
Red wine consumption improves insulin resistance but not endothelial function in type 2 diabetic patients
NAPOLI Raffaele; COZZOLINO Domenico ; GUARDASOLE Vincenzo MDs
Metabolism, Clinical and Experimental
2005, vol. 54, no3, pp. 306-313
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