With the new year quickly approaching, take heart (literally and figuratively) in that glass of "bubbly" you may be enjoying, because new research has found that moderate amounts of champagne (up to two glasses) each day helps to improve the functioning of the blood vessels in our bodies.

Champagne is able to accomplishes this because it is rich in polyphenols that come from the red and white grapes used in its production. Polyphenols, in turn, are believed to have antioxidant qualities that may play a role in warding off certain cancers as well as controlling our blood pressure by increasing the amount of nitric oxide (NO) in our blood, or rather decreasing its natural removal from our body.

When NO is allowed to linger, it is better able to accomplish its health-related function, which includes causing the smooth muscles in our blood vessels to relax, thus enlarging them. NO also inhibits platelet formation and cell adhesion to the blood vessels. The combined effect is to help blood to flow more freely, thereby decreasing blood pressure.

The overall benefits of champagne are not unlike those of red wine, whose connection to good health has been well documented over the years. Other good sources of polyphenols include tea, olive oil, chocolate, and many legumes. In many fruits, including grapes, it is believed to be concentrated in the skin.

Cardiovascular disease is a family of disorders that affect the heart and blood vessels (arteries and veins). The term itself refers to ailments of the cardiovascular system, though if often focuses on problems specifically related to atherosclerosis, or diseases of the arteries. Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death and disability in the United States, as well as many European countries. Each year in this country, it kills more people than cancer, and unfortunately, rates are on the rise.

This is due to the fact that symptoms become evident and heart problems are detected after the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. In fact, some studies have indicated that problems with the vascular system begin at a young age, highlighting the importance of early prevention. It is for this reason that health care professionals stress sound decisions when it comes to lifestyle choices, especially diet, exercise, and avoidance or cessation of smoking.

For more information, speak to your physician, and check out the website for the American Heart Association. And please remember to drink responsibly and exercise moderation.