Benefits of red wine ingredient resveratrol similar to gym workout, study claims

Downing a glass of wine a la Bridget Jones is not usually viewed as healthy. Photo / Screengrab / Working Title

According to a study by the University of Alberta in Canada, the health benefits from resveratrol, a compound found in red wine, are similar to those we get from working out: improved physical performance, better heart function and increased muscle strength.

Resveratrol could improve the benefits of modest amounts of exercise. Photo / iStock

The study's lead researcher says the findings could help those who aren't able to exercise.

"I think resveratrol could help patient populations who want to exercise but are physically incapable," Jason Dyck told Huffington Post.

"Resveratrol could mimic exercise for them or improve the benefits of the modest amount of exercise that they can do."

Studies into the health benefits of red wine are plentiful, with findings showing those who drink a glass of red wine a day are less likely to develop dementia or cancer.

It has also previously been revealed to be good for your heart, anti-ageing and can play a part in regulating blood sugar.

Not a fan of red wine or the gym? You can up your resveratrol intake with blueberries, peanut butter, red grapes and dark chocolate.