Describe the "French paradox" as it applies to low rates of heart disease

Answer 1

A strong association between moderate alcohol consumption and low rates of heart disease was first observed in France and then in other wine-drinking areas of the Mediterranean. Researchers have since identified antioxidants and other compounds in red wine that decrease blood clotting, and this may help explain part of the "French paradox" or how a region with high fat intakes could have such low rates of heart disease. Researchers are quick to point out, however, that other factors certainly may contribute to the paradox. For example, the French consume about 57 percent of their day's calories before 2 p.m., whereas most Americans have consumed only about 38 percent of their calories by that time. Also, the French mostly consume their wine with meals, and they eat more fruits and vegetables and leaner cuts of meat.