Here’s one more reason to love the French! Another mystery sweeping the 21st century is the French Paradox. Scientists are still baffled why a nation of dairy-worshipping, wine-chugging citizens has fewer incidents of heart attacks than other, more diet-obsessed countries.

Americans, on the other hand are succumbing to this deadly disease despite a major obsession with health foods, exercise and dieting. Some even struggle with weight issues their whole lives. What do the French know that we don’t?

Red Wine: The French Are On to Something

Scientists are continuing studies to point out whether their love affair with red wine is to blame. Red wine is full of antioxidants (according to the U.S. Institute of Health’s National Cancer Institute). These compounds are known to slow down the aging process, and red wine components like Reservatrol maybe helping people stay healthy longer.

How Antioxidants like Resveratrol Can Help You

What is it and where does it come from? Reservatrol, an anti-aging antioxidant, is produced by plants to fight off stress. Some experts are testing this theory and are seeing some positive results with regards to healing and reversing free radicals (slowing breakdown and the aging process.) But before I get ahead of myself, you’ll still need to know one more important thing before heading towards that glass of red wine tonight.

Oprah’s recent episode about this anti-aging antioxidant reveals that you can’t get enough Reservatrol just from a few glasses of red wine a week. You’ll need to down up to a dozen bottles daily to get the maximum results.

But fear not. You can get the same benefits by eating peanuts, blueberries and cranberries. Some online companies have already introduced Reservatrol supplements to boost antioxidant levels. (Note: Always seek a doctor’s approval first before taking any supplement.)

While some health crazes come and go, I personally believe it all boils down to the same thing: treat your body right! Eat your greens, catch enough sleep. It doesn’t get any more complicated than that. Don’t mess with Mother Nature too much.

So the next time you’re drinking red wine or chowing down on some peanuts, remember that these are only some of the many ways to staying young. Take advantage of France’s best kept secret… After all, they’ve got the art of looking good down to a science. Bon Appetit!