Balancing the Benefits of Wine & Chocolate

Wine and chocolate... now those are two things you certainly wouldn't consider to be "health foods."

But, actually, both contain health benefits. Ever hear of the French Paradox? Even though French people drink massive amounts of red wine, they have incredibly long lifespans.

The benefits come primarily from the flavonoids and antioxidants. In wine -- specifically red wine -- the polyphenol resveratrol packs the health punch.

With chocolate, the key is to eat the right percentage of cocoa. For instance, white chocolate has practically no health benefits, whereas dark chocolate contains more healthy compounds.

A recent study following 2,000 women in England found that eating small amounts of dark chocolate with red wine helped balance blood sugar levels, even in women who struggled with diabetes. This was a small study, so more research is needed to confirm the results; but it's promising for the future of both wine and chocolate.

Of course, both of these indulgent health foods should be consumed in moderation.

Join Dr. Leigh and special guest, Dr. Bruce Lobitz, as they discuss the new evidence surrounding chocolate and wine.