A natural compound concentrated in the skins of red grapes, seasonal berries and some Asian herbs, resveratrol has received increasing attention as a possible breakthrough in treating age-related illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Laboratory animals given high doses of the compound show longer lifespans, resistance to developing the physiological problems associated with consuming high-fat diets and resistance to the tumor-causing effects of certain toxins. According to the Mayo Clinic, the health benefits of resveratrol in humans are unknown and under clinical scrutiny. The compound remains available, over the counter, via several different non-standardized supplements. However, some health advisories accompany use of these supplements. In particular, taking resveratrol might actually complicate the treatment of cardiovascular disease, increase the progression of specific subsets of cancer and might pose a risk during pregnancy.
Increased Side Effects from Cardiovascular Drugs
As counterintuitive as it sounds, use of resveratrol supplements might actually be contraindicated in individuals suffering from heart disease. Resveratrol impairs the activity of an important liver enzyme responsible for breaking down a number of medications prescribed to treat aspects of heart disease or diabetes, including statins, which lower cholesterol, and sildenafil (i.e., Viagra), which is used to treat erectile dysfunction co-occurring with poor blood circulation. As such, the side effects associated with these prescription drugs become augmented in the presence of resveratrol. Because it decreases blood thickening, resveratrol might also inadvertently augment the side effects of yet other prescribed heart drugs such as Plavix, used to inhibit clots on the walls of blood vessels that feed the heart, and aspirin, sometimes used to facilitate blood thinning. Taking resveratrol along with Plavix or aspirin might lead to excess bleeding.
Promotion of Hormone-sensitive Cancers
Ironically, while providing general protection against tumor development, resveratrol might selectively increase the progression of specific subsets of cancer. Resveratrol's chemical structure appears similar to that of an estrogen-like drug. Because of this similarity, resveratrol has the ability to activate estrogen signaling in the body and to theoretically nurture the viability of estrogen-sensitive cancers such as breast or uterine cancer. According to both the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, women at risk for hormone-sensitive cancers should avoid supplements containing resveratrol.
Warnings for Use During Pregnancy
Resveratrol exhibits estrogen-like activity, and can potentially cause problems in women who are menstruating, pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or in those who are nursing children. Women thinking about starting supplementation with resveratrol should consult their doctor.
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