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16 | OHCC LIVING | OCTOBER 2021 | You have probably heard that consuming wine in moderation is healthy for you, which has been clinically documented, and similarly know that consuming too much wine can lead to that dreaded "hangover," brain fog, and lethargy the next day. However, did you know that habitual over-consumption of wine can lead to weight-gain, pre-diabetes, and inflammation of the brain and other organs? So, how can we enjoy the pleasures of wine consumption while we maintain our healthy lifestyle? A growing movement in the wine industry is the growing, making and distribution of natural, organic, certified wines, which are now options available to us. Through the centuries wines have been known for their "medicinal properties". The skins of natural, unadulterated red grapes are especially high in polyphenols and procyanidins which improve heart health. Therefore, red wines offer more medicinal benefits than white wines. Additionally, recent clinical research indicates that red wine is healthier for promoting bone density, because of its silicon content, and may even help promote a healthier gut. Pinot Noir also boasts higher concentrations of omega-3-fatty acids which can facilitate improved heart health. In fact, Pinot Noir hits the mark for the highest concentration of resveratrol, and it has the lowest sugar of the red wines, because of its dry wine properties. There are a growing number of wine distributors in the U.S., especially California, who care about the consumer, the local environment, and the planet. These distributors only source organic grapes from vineyards and wine producers who don't add any pesticides, herbicides, or any other harmful chemicals to the soil. They care about the land where the vines grow; and they protect the animals and plants native to their vineyard environments and the communities around them by not irrigating the soil, rather letting nature take care of the watering. It is noteworthy that almost two-thirds of these types of vineyards that produce certified organic wines are in France, Italy or Spain. To find California wines that meet similar high growing and processing standards, look for the CCOF (California Certified Organic Farm) certified seal on the wine label or tasting notes. The Wine Tasting Club has monthly wine tastings in members' homes. All OHCC residents are eligible to join. If you are interested in joining, fill out a membership request at the Clubhouse. Annual dues are $12. Wine Tasting Club