Major Study of Resveratrol Confirms Health Benefits

Major Study Review of Resveratrol Confirm Its Potential Health Benefits

A review of research conducted at The University of Florida (UF) finds the polyphenol compound Resveratrol found in red wine, grapes and other fruits may not necessarily prevent old age, but
it might help make it healthier and improve vitality. News stories have claimed resveratrol as a cure for various diseases and a preventative against aging.

"We're all looking for an anti-aging cure in a pill, but it doesn't exist. But what does exist shows promise of lessening many of the scourges and infirmities of old age," explained the researchers involved in the study.

A comprehensive review of human clinical research on resveratrol has found it has "anti-aging, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties," but more research of its benefits is needed, they added.

The study, which appeared in "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research" examined results taken from thousands of laboratory studies with enzymes, cultured cells and laboratory subjects.
It was conducted by researchers from Marywood University and
the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. The review examined the current state of knowledge of the effects of resveratrol on humans and to use the information to guide future human clinical trials.

For years many scientists have theorized that a link between resveratrol and human health exists. The French population, for example, enjoy low levels of cardiovascular disease, even though their diets are rich in saturated fats and oils. Some researchers believe the reason for this paradox lies in France's national drink
red wine, which is the dietary source of resveratrol. The UF review shows that the resveratrol has considerable potential to improve health and prevent chronic disease in humans.

Correlating factors such as metabolism, the chemical interplay of molecules, genetics, exercise, age, dosage, and many others all play a role in how resveratrol works, but it isn't yet fully understood.

Resveratrol functions as an antioxidant. Oxidation is the natural chemical process in living tissues that results in a transfer of electrons. When this happens, groups of atoms are formed called "free radicals" that can cause cell damage which in turn provides a pathway for diseases.

Antioxidants such as Resveratrol, however, suppress free radicals. "It's not so easy to say resveratrol is the main factor," the researchers indicated "It's one piece of the overall puzzle that reduces the free radicals."

The UF study also reveals that resveratrol's contribution to good health indicates that this polyphenol an antibiotic substance produced by plants as a defense against microorganisms -- prevents the growth of some cancers in laboratory mice, inhibits enzymes that cause inflammation, shrinks tumors and increases
blood flow, thus helping to reduce cardiovascular diseases. In many cases, it also extends the life of obese subjects. Some evidence also shows that resveratrol may help regulate insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients.

Resveratrol's potential to alleviate human infirmities will become increasingly more important as the nation's 76 million baby boomers undergo the aging process. One trial currently under way at UF's College of Medicine in the Institute on Aging examines the effect resveratrol may have on the physical and cognitive skills on older people.

Story Source: University of Florida.
Journal Reference: "Resveratrol and health - A comprehensive review of human clinical trials"
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 2011;