Researchers from the University of Reading in the United Kingdom revealed that components found in champagne increase the availability of nitric oxide in blood vessels. The high nitric oxide levels lower risk of blood clots and also regulates blood pressure thereby decreasing heart disease risk.

The researchers revealed that the beneficial effects of champagne may be attributed to the red grapes and white grapes used to make the bubbly drink.

“Our research has shown that drinking around two glasses of champagne can have beneficial effects on the way blood vessels function, in a similar way to that observed with red wine,” said Jeremy Spencer, a professor of molecular nutrition at the University of Reading department of food and nutritional sciences.

The details of the findings will appear in an upcoming print issue of the British Journal of Nutrition.

Red and white grapes contain a high amount of polyphenols that help keep blood vessels healthy and prevent high blood pressure. So does this mean a free license on guzzling champagne? No, say the researchers.  "We always encourage a responsible approach to alcohol consumption, but the fact that drinking champagne has the potential to reduce the risks of suffering from cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, is very exciting news," Dr Spencer said.

Polyphenols are thought to be important nutrients for human health especially in combating oxidative stress, which is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. Dietary sources of polyphenols include apples, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, cranberries, grapes, pears, plums, raspberries, strawberries, broccoli, cabbage, celery, onion and parsley.

Polyphenols are also found in red wine, chocolate and green tea.