If you like to enjoy grapes or a glass of red wine, you may have another reason to do so. They are rich sources of a compound called resveratrol, which may be able to treat or prevent obesity, according to a German study presented at the Endocrine Society's 90th Annual Meeting in San Francisco in 2008. Resveratrol is also available as a supplement. Contact your doctor for more advice before taking any supplement.
Definition
Resveratrol, a fat-soluble compound, is a member of a class of polyphenols called stilbenes. Plants produce it in response to injury, fungal infection, stress or ultraviolet light. It is an effective antioxidant that helps to fight free radicals and cell damage in the body. It also protects your body from diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and breast and prostate cancer.
Effect on Weight Loss
In the German study, researchers investigated resveratrol's effects on fat cells. They found that the compound prevented pre-fat cells from increasing and converting into mature fat cells. Resveratrol also prevented fat from being stored. Resveratrol's weight-loss benefits may also extend to protecting you from obesity-related disorders. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. However, resveratrol can inhibit the production of cytokines, known as interleukin 6 and 8, that may contribute to these conditions. It also triggers production of adiponectin, a protein that can reduce your risk of heart attack.
Sources and Amount
Besides being found in the skin of grapes and red wine, resveratrol is also in blueberries, cranberries and peanuts. As a supplement, it's available in capsule, powder or liquid extract form. There is currently no standard recommended amount, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Considerations
The majority of people who lose weight will gain it back. When you're frustrated by your efforts to lose weight and keep it off, you may be tempted to turn to a crash diet or weight-loss aid, such as resveratrol. Keep in mind that the most effective way to lose weight is to burn off more calories than you consume. Spend at least 30 minutes exercising five days a week and eat nutritious foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat meat and dairy and cold-water fish.
Caution
If you have high blood pressure, have suffered heart failure, or you're taking blood-thinning medications, do not take resveratrol. Also, drinking too much alcohol can cause health problems, such as liver damage. Women should consume no more than one serving of alcohol daily and men should consume no more than two. One serving of wine is 5 oz.
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