By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
September is California Wine Month and wine has become so vital to the state, that it deserves a whole month. “Last year we saw the devastation from wildfires in Sonoma and Napa and fires are still burning dangerously close in many areas throughout the state,” reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. “We are far from being out of the woods as we have yet to experience our Santa Ana’s, Sundowners and Diablo winds.”
There’s a lot of talk on the health benefits of wine, but before you crack open that bottle and toast your good health, here is what the experts say.
Is wine fattening? Actually, researchers say they’ve found a compound in red wine and grapes that block immature fat cells’ ability to develop and grow. “I’m not sure I buy that,” says Chief DiGiovanna. “My fat cells seem to be maturing!”
There’s research on the heart health benefits of a daily glass (or two) of red wine, as they say wine lowers blood pressure. Who the heck checks their blood pressure when drinking wine?
The Greek physician Hippocrates considered wine a part of a healthy diet, and advocated its use as a disinfectant for wounds. I just have friends who are Hypocrites and need disinfecting.
Some studies suggest that grape juice may provide some of the same heart benefits of red wine, including reducing the risk of blood clots, reducing so-called bad cholesterol, and preventing damage to blood vessels in the heart. “Hmmm… Grape juice or wine? That’s easy!”
Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to all who have been impacted by this year’s wildfires. The same with our firefighters out on the front lines.
One thing is important – Always drink responsibly!
