Believe it or not yes!! Studies suggest that red wine may enhance fat metabolism. Resveratrol, an active ingredient in red wine has been shown to dramatically increase the rate at which cells metabolise fat[1]. Resveratrol assists in stimulating a protein called sirtuin-1 which blocks a receptor on fat cells. When this receptor is blocked, the breakdown of fat is increased and the formation of new fat is decreased.
Resveratrol comes from the skin of grapes but since it oxidizes quickly fresh grapes and white wine are less effective sources. Red wine is a unique source of resveratrol as it retains the same amount as was in the grape at the time of its conversion to alcohol.
Other studies have shown that the stimulation of this protein by resveratrol (red wine consumption) also activates the genes that promote a longer, healthier lifespan and has been known to provide numerous cancer-preventative effects also.
Now don't go out buying a whole case and drinking a bottle a night. Alcohol is still dense in calories. Half a glass a night with your calorie controlled diet will be putting you on your way to six-pack abs quicker.
Reference
1. Nature 17:429;771-776, 2004
Red Wine Helps Get Six Pack Abs
