Scientific studies indicate that the compound resveratrol may inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells. Resveratrol, which is found in the highest concentrations in nuts, grapes and certain berries, may be an even more potent colon cancer therapy when combined with the spice compound curcumin. Although many nutritional supplement manufacturers market resveratrol-containing pills, health experts and consumer watch organizations warn that these supplements should be used with caution.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound that has been the focus of a wide range of studies that test its ability to increase lifespan, decrease cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in addition to its effect on cancer cells. Blueberries, cranberries, peanuts, grape juice and grapes are all rich sources of resveratrol; however, wine, particularly red wine, contains the highest concentration. A 5-oz. glass of red wine can contain as much as 0.30 mg of resveratrol, while white wine may contain only 0.01 mg.
Effect on Colon Cancer
In 2006, the medical journal "Carcinogenesis" published the results of an Italian study that indicated resveratrol could cause the death of colorectal cancer cells by inhibiting the lysosome's enzyme cathepsin D. The scientists based their study on a growing body of research that shows resveratrol can slow cancer growth and prevent potentially cancerous cells from fully developing. While the results are promising, experts point out that the majority of the studies were performed on in vitro cell cultures or animals; the effect of resveratrol on humans suffering from colon cancer is not known.
Resveratrol and Curcumin
Researchers at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Michigan found in 2009 that colon cell cultures treated with a combination of resveratrol and curcumin experienced greater growth inhibition than cancer cells treated by either compound alone. Curcumin, which is a substance that can be isolated from the spice turmeric, appears to slow cancer cell growth in both cultures and lab animals and may also act as an antioxidant. Together, resveratrol and curcumin may prove to be an effective treatment for colon cancer, but specific clinical studies are needed.
Considerations
Red wine, grapeskin extract and resveratrol dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Adminstration and are not checked for purity, safety or effectiveness. They may contain significantly less resveratrol than they advertise on their labels and, since there are few studies involving human use of the supplements, there is no way to know the potential dangers or side effects. Consult your doctor before using these supplements.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Red Wine and Resveratrol - Good For Your Heart?
- NPR: Red Wine Pills - Buyer Beware
- "Carcinogenesis"; Resveratrol induces cell death in colorectal cancer cells by a novel pathway involving lysosomal cathepsin D; Nicol F. Trincheri, et al.; November 2006
- "Nutrition and Cancer"; Curcumin synergizes with resveratrol to inhibit colon cancer; A.P. Majumdar, et al.; 2009
- Linus Pauling Institute: Resveratrol
- Mayo Clinic: Can Curcumin Slow Cancer Growth?
