Resveratrol For Atherosclerosis

Resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant, has attracted much research and popular attention for its purported health benefits. Recent research has revealed considerable information on the benefits of resveratrol in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Consult with a qualified health professional to determine the most appropriate course of therapy for your individual needs before supplementing with resveratrol.

Nitric Oxide

Resveratrol increases levels of nitric oxide, a compound that relaxes blood vessels, prevents inflammation and apoptosis -- programmed cell death, and delays arterial plaque formation in animal models, according to a study published in the 2010 "Current Medicinal Chemistry" journal. Human trials are rare, say the researchers, and more are needed before resveratrol can be recommended as an evidence-based therapy for the prevention or treatment of atherosclerosis.

Anti-Inflammatory

Resveratrol may have anti-atherogenic and anti-inflammatory effects by preventing lipid oxidation, platelet aggregation and arterial vasodilation and lowering cholesterol levels, according to a study published in the July 2010 "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition." The meta study, a review of previously published research, also found resveratrol to be effective at regenerating vitamin E and reducing oxidative stress. The researchers noted that no toxic effects have been observed for resveratrol, even at high dosage levels.

Pterostilbene

Pterostilbene, a closely related compound derived from resveratrol, significantly inhibits atherosclerosis, according to a study published in the July 2010 "Vascular Pharmacology" journal. In the study, pterostilbene inhibited excess reproduction of muscle cells in the linings of arteries, a component in the development of atherosclerosis. The researchers concluded that pterostilbene shows potential as a treatment for atherosclerosis and also for re-occlusion of arteries after angioplasty surgery.

Diabetes

Diabetic atherosclerosis responds well to treatment with resveratrol, according to a study published in the May 2010 "International Journal of Molecular Medicine." In the study, resveratrol reduced the oxidative effects of advanced glycation end products -- molecules that form due to oxidation from excessive blood sugar levels -- and prevented cholesterol accumulation in white blood cells -- a key initiating event in the formation of arterial plaques.

Complex Activity

A study in the October 2010 "Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases" describes resveratrol's multiple levels of richly complex activity within the cardiovascular system. Among its contributions, resveratrol promotes healthy development of cells, modulates the process of apoptosis, provides antioxidant protection to cells, improves energy production and also regulates blood sugar levels, say the authors of the study.