Resveratrol Supplements – A Guide

Resveratrol is a substance produced by some plants when under threat of fungal or bacterial infection. It is found in varying amounts in grapes and in red wine which might help to explain the so called French Paradox, the phenomenon whereby the French high fat diet does not seem to adversely affect them!
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 anti aging 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 lower cholestrol in those mice. Resveratrol shows promise in the fight against some cancers like skin cancer.
The mechanism that helps increase lifespan and fight some cancers is an area still under much study. What is apparent is that it interferes with all three stages of carcinogenesis, 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.
Not surprisingly, resveratrol has become a popular weight loss supplement given its known properties of negating fat intake. A study in 2006 demonstrated that mice that were fed a high fat diet, where they consumed about 30% more calories than the standard diet but also given resveratrol supplements were no more likely to die than those fed a standard diet. While the resveratrol did not lower cholestrol 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 increased energy levels which further enhances its appeal.
Resveratrol is often extracted from Japanese knotweed and is in the skins of several plants, particularly grapes. In grapes, its concentration varies with the grape variety and the region it comes from. In wine the amounts vary also with the length of time the wine stays in contact with the grape skins during fermentation. It is also found in peanuts, blueberries and other fruits in varying amounts.
It is hardly surprising that resveratrol has enjoyed a bit of a craze but as always with nutritional supplements do exercise caution before buying. It’s also important to buy from a reputable supplier and make sure you follow all instructions carefully.

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