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Resveratrol Revisited

Resveratrol is found in some plants, although many people associate the compound with red grapes or wine.

Several Asian countries have long used resveratrol to treat conditions like heart abnormalities and liver problems, but the United States is just beginning to take notice of its potentially favorable properties.

So what benefits are thought to be associated with resveratrol?

  • Life Extender.  Well, most of the experiments involved rats, mice, and fish, although human research is also underway.  Nonetheless, some studies showed that supplementing with resveratrol extended animal life expectancy up to 30%.  The presumed reason?  It is believed to suppress the gene that controls aging.
  • Antioxidant.  Another possible benefit to resveratrol is a strong antioxidant quality; antioxidants help combat free radicals.  That’s a good thing, because free radicals can lead to illness or disease.
  • Alzheimer’s Buster? Okay, maybe it’s unlikely that resveratrol can eradicate Alzheimer’s disease, but it is theorized that individuals who take the supplement, particularly when coupled with vitamins A and C, may reduce the chance of contracting the neurological disorder.
  • Inflammatory Suppressant.  Inflammation can lead to a medley of chronic conditions like joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.  Resveratrol is thought to reduce inflammation in the body, thus diminishing the opportunity for illness.

It is also important to mention that resveratrol may help circumvent the effects of an otherwise imperfect diet.  Case in point?  Some European countries regularly consume high-fat meals consisting of butter, cream, etc., yet experience a lesser degree of obesity, heart disease and certain other dangerous conditions.  Why?  It’s believed that the resveratrol in red wine (certain Europeans love red wine in moderation) counteracts some effects of the rich food.

Is resveratrol the Fountain of Youth?  Probably not.  Have studies proven it will positively impact humans?  No, local research is still in the infancy stages.  Even so, some Harvard University scientists are quite impressed and believe the compound holds promise.

So, should you consider adding resveratrol to your daily intake?  Always check with your doctor before taking any new supplements.  Nevertheless, at least at this point, the picture does look good.