Scientists discover red wine can help burn fat

An ingredient in grapes, berries and red wine can turn excess flab into calorie-burning “brown” fat, research has shown.

The discovery suggests that diets containing the substance, resveratrol, may help combat obesity.

Scientists gave mice amounts of resveratrol equivalent to humans consuming 12 ounces of fruit per day.

They found that despite a high fat diet, the mice gained 40% less weight than animals not fed the compound.

The research showed the mice were able to change their excess white fat to active “brown” or “beige” fat which reduces weight gain by burning up calories.

Lead researcher Professor Min Du, from Washington State University, US, said: “Polyphenols in fruit, including resveratrol, increase gene expression that enhances the oxidation of dietary fats so the body won’t be overloaded.”