Wine may prevent disorder of the esophagus

March 3, 2009 in Cancer Prevention, Nutrition Topics in the News

Wine may prevent disorder of the esophagus

Having one glass of wine a day may lower the risk of developing a disorder called Barrett's esophagus, say researchers from Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California.

Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the passage running from the mouth to the stomach starts showing signs of become cancerous.

In this new study, the alcohol consumption habits of 320 patients with Barrett's esophagus were compared to the drinking habits of similar but healthy individuals.

The researchers found that overall alcohol use was not significantly associated with Barrett's esophagus. However, wine did have a protective effect against Barrett's esophagus.

Compared to people who did not drink wine, those who drank seven or more glasses of wine per week were 66 percent less likely to develop this pre-cancerous condition of the esophagus.

One glass of wine is the equivalent of five ounces or 140 milliliters.  

Previous studies have linked alcohol to increased risk of certain cancers, however wine contains the antioxidant resveratrol which may help destroy pre-cancerous cells.

All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.