Even though the French are known to have appetites for rich, fatty foods, they seem to have relative low rates of heart disease. For some time now it is believed that a moderate consumption of red wine can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Recently certain compounds in red wine have been found to be helpful. Some red sweet wines that have high alcohol content are not included in this category. Red and purple grapes, pomegranates and cocoa contain a chemical named polyphenols that stop the fatty build up in the arteries by causing the blood vessels to open wider allowing the increase in blood flow. The higher altitude in regions of France and Italy produce the most effective polyphenol producing grapes. For the best results wine should be sipped slowly with meals and never should a lot of wine be drank on an empty stomach. If you don’t particularly care for wine there are other foods that can help keep fats from collecting in arteries such as: Red Delicious and granny smith apples, berries, grape juice, nuts, beans, cinnamon and our favorite … dark or bittersweet chocolate eaten in moderation. Another great juice drink for a healthy heart is cranberry juice. My Question: Do The French Have The Cure For Heart Disease?