Resveratrol is a natural compound found in wine, berries, the skin of the red grapes, and a particular plant native to Japan called knotweed. Soy isoflavones are naturally found found in soy beans and tofu. Both resveratrol and soy isoflavones, which are commonly used supplements in alternative medicine, have been researched for a variety of health conditions including high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, heart diseases and cancer prevention. While both supplements are generally considered safe and well tolerated, they both should be used only under medical supervision, because in rare cases, they may cause negative effects.
Estrogen-like Effects
Resveratrol has mild estrogen-like activity; thus, women who have cancer or other medical conditions that are sensitive to estrogen should use this supplement cautiously. Soy isoflavones are basically plant estrogens. Due to its estrogen-like effects, soy isoflavones may interact with tamoxifen, which is used for managing breast cancer, and raloxifene, which is prescribed for osteoporosis. The estrogenic activity of soy isoflavones may also negatively impact babies who drink soy-based formula, which may cause possible reproductive problems and other health issues later on in life. Resveratrol and other grape seed extracts should not be used in children.
Digestive Symptoms
People who take soy isoflavones may experience mild stomach upset, diarrhea and constipation. Although digestive symptoms from taking resveratrol in a supplement form have not been reported, drinking wine may cause stomach irritation due to its alcohol content.
Allergies
Virtually all natural supplements derived from plants or herbs have the potential to cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. Those who consume soy isoflavones are at higher risk because soy beans, peanuts and other beans contain similar compounds and are a common cause of food allergies.
Interaction with Blood Thinners
Both resveratrol and soy isoflavones have the potential risk of increasing the tendency for bleeding. Resveratrol may interact with blood thinner drugs, such as aspirin and warfarin, and thus, this supplement should not be used two weeks before and two weeks after a surgery. There was also a case of increased bleeding tendency in a patient who was taking warfarin and started supplementation with soy isoflavones at the same time.
Considerations
Consult a qualified healthcare provider to find out more about benefits and risks from taking resveratrol or soy isoflavones. Keep in mind that resveratrol and soy isoflavones do not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for a medical condition. They are not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration for any health concerns.
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