You’ve probably seen or heard the advertising for resveratrol supplements that has proliferated on television and the Internet. And you may be wondering, Exactly what is resveratrol? What’s all the excitement about this natural substance?
Resveratrol is a phytochemical, an antioxidant found in some plants. Because it is abundantly present in the skins and seeds of red and purple grapes, it’s probably best known as a red wine ingredient. Resveratrol is also present in white grapes, to a lesser extent. Other dark-skinned plants, such as pomegranates, blueberries, and even strawberries also contain resveratrol in varying amounts. In addition, resveratrol is also found in peanuts.
The benefits of resveratrol have been described in glowing terms by many companies interested in selling resveratrol supplements. Early studies raised hopes that high doses of resveratrol may play a significant role in weight loss, prevention of diabetes, protection against osteoarthritis and the deterioration of cartilage. One of the greatest potential benefits of resveratrol was thought to be the prevention of breast cancer by decreasing dangerous estrogen metabolites. In April 2008, newswoman Barbara Walters interviewed scientist Dr. David Sinclair, as part of a series on aging presented by ABC-TV. Sinclair explained how the red wine ingredient resveratrol activates a gene in the bodies of mice to increase energy, encourage weight loss, and generally enable the mouse to live longer than mice not exposed to the benefits of resveratrol. Because humans possess a virtually identical gene, Dr. Sinclair hoped to show how similar anti-aging effects could occur in humans who took high-potency resveratrol supplements.
Research on resveratrol continues, at the Harvard Medical School and other prestigious universities. If you are interested in resveratrol supplements and the potential benefits of resveratrol in your own body and your own life, it is most important that you look for the highest quality supplements available. Do some research on the Internet; read neurologist Dr. Joseph Maroon’s book, The Longevity Factor: How Resveratrol and Red Wine Activate Genes for a Longer and Healthier Life. Then use your best judgment in purchasing resveratrol supplements for a new lease on your life!