A report in a Welsh journal recently claimed that:IT WAS once up there with coffee on the banned list of substances for those who wanted to maintain a healthy smile with shiny white teeth.
But now it seems there is a good excuse for lovers of red wine to pour themselves a glass, with researchers claiming it is actually beneficial for the bite.
Compounds known as polyphenols in red wine have been found to stave off periodontal diseases which affect the gums and bone around the teeth, often leading to permanent tooth loss. Periodontitis affects 65% of adults over 50 and 15% of adults aged between 21 and 50.
Scientists from Universite Laval in Quebec, Canada, found that red wine polyphenols help reduce the inflammation that arises from periodontitis. They presented their findings at the 35th annual meeting of the American Association for Dental Research in Orlando, Florida, and published them in the US Journal of Dental Research.
It is yet another shot in the arm for wine-lovers who claim it is fine to enjoy a glass in moderation for its numerous reported health benefits.
However, if you don't trust this report you can always try the water.
There are water taps and fountains all along the camino where pilgrims and travellers can drink or top up their water bottles. Some are very simple 'tap in the wall' type fuentes but others are architecturally beautiful with historic value. Most have a sign whether the water is 'potable' (drinkable) or not. There is even one famous fountain at Bodegas Irache that offers wine and water!
The water is safe (promise!) but if you don't trust it, you can buy bottled water in cafes and bars - and boost the local economy! Click on the photo for a higher resolution view of the fountain.
Thanks for these photos they are a joy and an inspiration to do the Camino.
ReplyDeleteniel