CHAMPAGNE and wine are good for your heart, according to a study that claims they reduce the risk of a cardiac arrest.
Drinkers have cause for celebration as boffins reckon bubbly has a “cardioprotective effect”.
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It adds to years of controversial evidence that suggests a little booze might do us good.
Scientists at Fudan University in Shanghai listed consumption of white wine or champagne as a habit that could reduce the risk of a cardiac arrest.
More than 30,000 people per year suffer a cardiac arrest when their heart suddenly stops beating.
The chance of survival if you are not already in a hospital is less than 10 per cent.
The new study used medical records from half a million Brits and estimated up to 63 per cent of cardiac arrests could be prevented with healthier lifestyles.
Study author Dr Huihuan Luo said eating more fruit, staying slim and maintaining healthy blood pressure and good mental health were top ways to reduce the risk.
In addition, consuming champagne or red or white wine appeared to reduce the risk by around 30 per cent.
Writing in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, Dr Luo said: “Our results suggested that consumption of certain types of alcohol, such as red and white wine, might protect against sudden cardiac death.”
About eight in 10 adults in the UK regularly drink alcohol and white wine is one of the most popular orders.
Past studies suggest that a potent antioxidant in red wine grapes – resveratrol – may be good for heart and brain health.
Commenting on the study, Nick Grubic of the University of Toronto, said: “One of the study’s most intriguing findings is the protective effect associated with champagne and white wine.
“Numerous studies have supported the theory that moderate alcohol consumption may have a negative correlation with cardiovascular risk.
“Traditionally, red wine has been attributed with these benefits owing to its high polyphenol content, particularly resveratrol.
“However, white wine and champagne may also have cardiovascular advantages.
“The underlying mechanisms remain unclear but these findings reinforce the idea that the benefits of moderate alcohol consumption may be more complex than previously assumed.”