Resveratrol Supplements - Know the Facts

Resveratrol is produced by some plants to help fight infection when they are under attack from fungus or bacteria. It is found in varying amounts in grapes and 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 anti aging properties. Experiments on mice have demonstrated that resveratrol actually negated the effects of a high fat diet, lowering insulin and blood sugar 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.
The mechanism that helps increase lifespan and fight some cancers is still not fully understood. 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 there is much to be done to progress these findings to more common use in medicine.
Resveratrol has become popular as an aid to weight loss given its 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 mice on 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 type of grape and the region it is grown in. In wine the concentration varies with the time that the wine remains in contact with the grape skins during fermentation. It is also found in peanuts, blueberries and other fruits in varying amounts.
Given the results so far it is no wonder resveratrol has enjoyed a bit of a craze but as with all 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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