Resveratrol is a compound that occurs naturally in certain plants in response to stress, infection, fungal disease or ultraviolet irradiation, according to the National Cancer Institute. Grapes contain high levels of resveratrol in their skins. Other foods with resveratrol include blueberries, peanuts and cranberries. Resveratrol is also available as a nutritional supplement.
Significance
Wine contains resveratrol since it is made from grapes, and according to the Linus Pauling Institute, this might be why the French have a low incidence of heart disease since it is customary to drink a glass of wine with meals in their country. The low rate of heart disease in spite of a high fat diet is known as the French Paradox and has raised interest in the use of resveratrol for its health benefits.
Benefits
Resveratrol is a potent antioxidant, according to Drugs.com. It protects plants from sunlight and infection and may be able to prevent damage to humans that is caused by free radicals. Free radicals contribute to aging, brain degeneration and diseases such as cancer. Drugs.com further states that resveratrol may help lower cholesterol, lower blood sugar, improve skin health, elevate energy levels, protect against cancer, improve memory, reduce inflammation, slow aging and possibly increase longevity.
Considerations
The Linus Pauling Institute warns that little is known about how resveratrol affects humans since many of the studies have been conducted on animals. However, there are clinical trials underway to learn more about how resveratrol can be used to treat diseases in humans.
Side Effects
Although there are no known adverse side effects from taking resveratrol, Drugs.com advises patients with bleeding disorders and those taking blood thinners to talk with a doctor before taking resveratrol supplements. They further recommend stopping resveratrol two weeks before having surgery to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding. In addition, resveratrol should be used cautiously by women with estrogen-sensitive cancers because it has mild estrogenic actions in the body.
Expert Insight
Although drinking wine in moderation has been linked to a lower incidence of heart disease, the Mayo Clinic states that the American Heart Association does not recommend taking up drinking wine simply to prevent heart disease. Drinking alcohol can lead to other health problems and addiction.
Member Comments