The health benefits of wine and fish separately are common knowledge by now, with both doctors and nutritionists encouraging us to integrate them into our daily meals for a boost in stamina and wellbeing. A recent study led by Dr. Romina di Giuseppe of the Catholic University in Campobasso, Italy, has showed concrete proof that a glass of wine with a fish dish is extremely beneficial for the heart, in that it brings its contribution to the effects of the latter, which lowers inflammation and prevents heart-rhythm disturbances.

“People drinking moderate amounts of alcohol, one drink a day for women and two for men, had higher concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids in plasma and red blood cells independently of their fish intake,” the researchers said, stressing on the importance of wine. However, when the glass of wine was associated with fish intake, it showed positive results in increasing omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy fats that protect it against the affections noted above, besides reducing the chances of blot clots.

The study was performed on 1,604 adults aged 26-65, from Italy, Belgium and the UK. Given the geographical span of the research, different dietary habits were taken into account, as well as a comparison with people who chose to wash down their fish meals with something other than wine, like beer and spirits. In the end, it became clear that it was wine that contributed to the increase of omega-3 acids, its effects complementing those of fish.

Also due to the fact that the study was undertaken in more than one country, scientists were able to zoom in on the precise alcoholic beverages that are linked to higher omega-3 levels. As it turns out, it’s wine that is most associated with them, which has led scientists to conclude that it’s something else in it that makes it so beneficial than alcohol. Polyphenols (antioxidant compounds) may play a significant role, researchers believe.