Information on Resveratrol

by Rigel Celeste

Overview

Information on Resveratrol

The French people baffled scientists and doctors for years by having a low rate of heart disease despite indulging in major no-nos like high fat foods and lots of wine. Science is catching up, however, and it seems the French secret to success just might lie in that red wine they love so much -- it's a little ingredient called resveratrol.
What

Resveratrol is a specific type of polyphenolic compound called a stilbene that has antioxidant properties and is found naturally in several foods including grapes, peanuts, blueberries and cranberries.

Where

Resveratrol is perhaps most famous for its presence in red wine, making a drink that was once considered taboo by many into an almost guilt-free daily indulgence. There's more resveratrol in red wine (as opposed to white or blush wines) because it's almost all found in the grape's skin, so the longer the skin stays in the wine-making process the better. Resveratrol is also found in naturally high concentrations in dark grape juice, peanuts, blueberries and cranberries, plus it's available in concentrated supplement form from various suppliers.
Why

Although few studies have been done involving humans, in lab tests resveratrol has been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease, slow the growth of cancer, decrease inflammation, and prolong life. It has also been widely credited as a major player in the famous "French Paradox", where the French are known for eating a high fat diet while still maintaining a low risk for heart disease.
Considerations

Very little is known about resveratrol and it's affect on the human body so take caution when shopping for resveratrol supplements or deciding to get into a wine habit for the sake of your health. Drinking alcohol or red wine in moderation (1-2 drinks daily) appears to have a beneficial effect on the heart but also can easily be overdone which can lead to much more serious health complications.
Fun Fact

One of resveratrol's known purposes in plants is to act as an anti-fungal agent.