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Wine Compound May Modulate Lung Inflammation

Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in wine, exerts anti-inflammatory properties that may lower the risk of airway obstruction in the lungs.

Wine consumption associates with better lung function in the general population, and previous studies have shown that resveratrol, a polyphenol antioxidant present in wine, exerts anti-inflammatory properties in the lung The compound’s effects are partially mediated via induction of Sirtuin (SIRT)1 activity. Researchers from the University Medical Center Groningen (The Netherlands) assessed the impact of wine and resveratrol intake, and SIRT1 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on lung function in the general population. The researchers reported that pure resveratrol intake was associated with higher lung volumes and that white wine intake (but not red wine intake) and was associated with lower risk of airway obstruction. The study authors submit that their data: “shows a positive association of resveratrol intake with lung function in the general population, [and] confirms the previously reported positive association of white wine intake with higher levels of [forced expiratory volume].”

M. Siedlinski, J.M.A. Boer, H.A. Smit, D.S. Postma, H.M. Boezen.  “Dietary factors and lung function in the general population: wine and resveratrol intake.” Eur Respir J., 39:385-391, Feb. 1, 2012.