Resveratrol Gains Momentum as Studies Confirm Its Effectiveness

Found in the skin and seeds of grapes as well as red wine, some fruits, and nuts, resveratrol is causing quite a buzz in the scientific and medical communities. It’s long been known that the French people remain healthy while still enjoying food consisting of saturated fat. It’s a phenomenon commonly known as the “French Paradox” because although they eat a diet containing a similar amount of fat as Americans, they have a lower rate of heart and cardiovascular disease. Studies in mice have now confirmed that this powerful component of red wine is responsible for this occurrence.

The first set of results from resveratrol studies were published in June of 2008. Scientists noted that the compound offered effects on mice of middle age by altering the genetic indicators that are responsible for the aging process. This was attributed to the active antioxidant being able to mimic the benefits of caloric restriction as remarkably noted in lab subjects. These effects included a longer life and a stunted aging process. They added that lower levels of resveratrol than previously thought had a significant affect on the subjects in the study. The mechanism of action in aging mice appeared to be at the gene expression levels, specifically those responsible for telling genes when to turn on and shut off.

Cardiac benefits have also been noted in many studies done thus far. In one study published on the National Institutes of Health web site in July of 2008, they reported similarly consistent findings as the study done a month earlier with added benefits of cardiac preservation. Obese mice experienced healthier aortal tissue and a lower overall cholesterol level than obese mice not treated with resveratrol. This resulted in a longer lifespan due to the avoidance of cardiovascular-related disease. Dr. Sinclair of the Harvard School of Medicine added, "Continued study of calorie restriction mimetics…may eventually point the way to new medicines to treat diseases of aging."

General benefits have also been observed in the treated mice in the same July 2008 study. First, mice that were dosed had higher bone density, reduced cataract development, enhanced balance and coordination (in aged subjects), and reduced fatty cells in the liver. In mice fed a regular diet, however, resveratrol did not positively affect the lifespan of the mice. Increased lifespan results were noted in the NIH web site report in mice that were fed a low-calorie diet as well as those fed a high-calorie diet: “mean and maximum lifespan increased…when compared with the control mice.”

This naturally-occurring antioxidant merits further investigation into the overall effects on the human body including its confirmed affect on cancer cells and free radicals. For now, nutritional supplements, vitamin capsules (usually in a 60 count bottle of 100 mg strength), and tea are available to buy in stores and online. You can research the lists of various studies, download PDF abstract articles, view personal comments from other users, and read 2009 news reports on the subject. It appears that the confirmed benefits of resveratrol outnumber what we have yet to learn about this amazing and highly-effective substance.

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