Resveratrol – What is it and why is it used?

Resveratrol, also known as ‘the French paradox in a bottle’, is a compound that works like an antioxidant. It is produced by plants in response to an injury, infection or fungal attack. Apart from plants, it is also found in foods like grapes, berries, and peanuts but it’s mostly concentrated in the skin and seeds. It is also found in red wine since the skin and seeds of grapes are included in the fermentation process.

Benefits of Resveratrol 

• It’s anti-aging

Resveratrol can reverse some effects of aging by treating health problems like Sarcopenia, Osteoporosis, and a decline in the mental process.

• It can reduce blood pressure

Due to its antioxidant properties, Resveratrol is being used as a promising supplement for lots of health benefits, including lowering blood pressure.  It can help produce nitric oxide that can cause the blood vessels to relax. Resveratrol is good for the health of the heart too as it inhibits NADPH and EnOS.

• It protects the brain

We all know drinking red wine can slow down the aging, right? Ever wondered why? It is partly because of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Resveratrol. It interferes with protein fragments that are responsible for forming plaques causing Alzheimer’s disease.

• It mitigates oxidative stress

Resveratrol has the ability to reduce oxidative stress too. A study conducted in 2011 evaluated the response of 20 individuals divided into 2 groups of 10 people each. They were provided with placebo and Resveratrol treatment for 6 weeks. The individuals in the test group enjoyed less oxidative stress and less redness and swelling caused by age-related diseases.

• It can prevent obesity

Resveratrol kills the fat cells. Hence it can benefit weight loss by inhibiting hormone-sensitive lipase, lipoprotein lipase, and fatty acid synthase. It can also improve the metabolism.

• It can fight fungal infections

A research shows that Resveratrol can also be used as a therapeutic agent to fight fungal infection in humans. This compound has the ability to kill Candida albicans, which is yeast that is responsible for causing monilial infections.

• It can provide protection against ultraviolet-B radiation damages

Multiple exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun can cause skin cancer like Non-melanoma. A study showed that Resveratrol imparts protection against acute ultraviolent-B mediated damages in hairless mice. The study concluded that Resveratrol can prevent ultraviolet-B radiation damages.

What is Resveratrol used for?

The above-mentioned benefits are just a few to name. A lot of research on the uses of this compound is still in progress. We can say that Resveratrol is being used for the following properties:

• It provides antioxidant support.
• It provides protection against diabetes, cancer and supports the heart health too.
• It is capable of preventing premature signs of aging.
• It supports tissue and cellular health.
• It supports the digestive system by eliminating toxic compounds.
• It can improve endurance and energy.

Resveratrol is readily available in supplement form. It is typically recommended to take 350 to 500 mg per day but the dosage can vary depending on the health and symptoms of the individual.  Resveratrol may potentially interact with pain relievers and blood thinners so make sure you talk to your doctor before taking the supplement.