Resveratrol is produced by some plants to help them ward off infection when they are under bacterial or viral attack. It is found in red grapes and is present 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 some lifespan extending properties. Other experiments with mice demonstrated that resveratrol actually negated the effects of a high fat diet, lowering insulin and glucose levels to near normal though it did not lower cholestrol 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. What is apparent is that it interferes with all three stages of carcinogenesis, initiation, promotion and progression at least in test tube studies but much work needs to be done to adapt these findings to more practical application for humans.
Resveratrol has become popular as an aid to weight loss given its known properties of negating fat intake. A 2006 study showed that mice that were fed a high fat diet, consuming about 30% more calories than others 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 encouraging enough to lead to resveratrol being used as a diet aid. It appears resveratrol may enhance metabolism, even in small amounts. Many dieters using resveratrol have reported feeling more energetic which further enhances its appeal.
Resveratrol can be found in 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 can also be found in cranberries, peanuts and blueberries in varying amounts.
Given the results so far it is no wonder resveratrol has enjoyed a bit of a craze but as always with 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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