Resveratrol Supplements - Know Your Stuff First!

Resveratrol is a substance produced by some plants as an antidote to infection when they are under attack from fungus or bacteria. It is found in red grapes and is present in red wine which may help to explain why the French who eat a diet high in fats remain quite healthy, the so called 'French paradox'.

In some experiments resveratrol has reportedly shown anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and other highly beneficial properties such as the lowering of blood sugar and even some lifespan extending properties. Experiments on mice have demonstrated that resveratrol actually negated the effects of a high fat diet, lowering insulin and glucose levels to near normal though it did not change the cholesterol level in those mice. Resveratrol shows promise in the fight against some cancers like skin cancer.

Just how resveratrol acts to increase lifespan and fight some cancers is an area still under much study. It is known that it interferes with all three stages of carcinogenesis, that is, initiation, promotion and progression at least in test tube studies but much work needs to be done to adapt these findings to more practical application for humans.

Resveratrol has become popular as an aid to weight loss given its properties of negating fat intake. A 2006 study showed that mice fed a high fat diet consuming about 30% more calories than others but also given resveratrol were no more likely to die than those fed a standard diet. While the resveratrol did not lower cholesterol or free fatty acids in those mice the beneficial effects and the results of a later study showing increased endurance in mice given resveratrol have been enough to encourage the use of resveratrol as an aid to dieters. It appears resveratrol may enhance metabolism even in small amounts. Many dieters taking resveratrol supplements have reported feeling more energetic which further enhances its appeal.

Resveratrol can be found in Japanese knotweed and in the skins of various fruits, particularly grapes. in grapes its concentration varies with the type of grape and the region it is grown in. In wine the amounts vary also with the time that red wine is in contact with the grape skins during fermentation. It is also found in cranberries, peanuts and blueberries in varying amounts.

Given the results so far its no wonder resveratrol has enjoyed a bit of a craze but as always with nutritional supplements do exercise caution before buying. Its important to buy from a reputable supplier and follow the dosage instructions carefully.