By Gina Rollins DP, HHC
Resveratrol is an antioxidant belonging to a group of flavonoids. Evidence shows it may protect against many diseases.
Anti-Cancer
Resveratrol appears to protect against the promotion of cancer cells. It was found to inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells, help repair damaged information in some cells and encourage apoptosis (the death) of damaged cells.
Cardiovascular Health
Resveratrol appears to prevent free radical oxidation of LDL cholesterol that leads to plaque buildup in arteries and atherosclerosis.
Diabetes
May protect against oxidative damage caused by high glucose levels and reduce diabetic neuropathic pain.
The French Paradox
Is the observation that French people have a relatively low incidence of coronary heart disease despite having a diet rich in saturated fats. It is believed that the French Paradox lies in the resveratrol found in red wine. Resveratrol is believed to not only help widen the arteries – making it easier for blood to flow freely through – but also works at reducing platelet aggregation (otherwise known as the clogging of the arteries). The French Paradox works because, despite their consumption of fatty foods known to damage heart health, the French drink healthy doses of red wine. It is little wonder that the French have long believed in drinking to one’s health.
Sources:
The most abundant sources are grapes, grape juice and red wine. It can also be found in varying amounts in peanuts, blueberries, raspberries, mulberries, bilberries, cranberries and Japanese and Chinese knotweed.
A word about supplements
It is important to keep in mind that the FDA does not regulate resveratrol supplements so there’s no guarantee that the dosage listed on the label is the actual amount present in the capsule.
Most supplements sold in the United States contain resveratrol extracted from the Japanese and Chinese knotweed plant, while others are made from wine or red grape extracts. Japanese knotweed also contains emodin, known to stimulate bowel activity so diarrhea is a possible side effect.
In conclusion, it is always best to get your nutrients from a wide variety of whole foods and always check with your doctor before beginning any supplement or dietary changes.
Eat, Drink and Gwell
Special Offer! $100 Wine Voucher from Naked Wines. Just click below and use my special discount code