Scientists: white wine 'good for your lungs'

There was good news for wine suppliers this week as scientists revealed that drinking white wine could be good for your lungs.

Experts at the University of Buffalo studied 1,555 people and discovered that white wine drinkers have healthier lungs than those who drink beer or spirits or who don't drink at all.

This is because white wine contains nutrients that absorb toxins in the blood and could therefore reduce inflammation in the airways, protecting the lungs.

It follows on from news that red wine can protect against heart disease and colds. Dr Holger Schunemann who was involved in the study, said: "This finding may indicate that nutrients in wine are responsible for the positive effect of alcoholic beverages on lung function."

He added that the evidence for white wine having health benefits was stronger than that for red wine.

But scientists reiterated that drinking in moderation and eating a balanced diet was the key to a healthy lifestyle. Drinking alcohol to excess increases the likelihood of a number of health problems, including high blood pressure, liver and heart disease.