Resveratrol - Effects and uses | Supplements and Vitamins

By DeniseRichards
Total views: 14
Word Count: 498

The largest source of resveratrol which is actually an antioxidant produced by certain plants as a reaction to environmental stress is grapes. Actually, the skin of grapes contains this phytoalexin in abundance. This is the reason why the resveratrol content is more in red wine.

Wine which is produced from grapes is thus a good source of resveratrol. It is found more in red wine than in the white wine. This is due to the fact that the skins of grapes which are the main source of resveratrol is left longer during fermentation while processing and preparing red wine than the white wine.

Resveratrol occurs naturally as well as in diet supplements. Resveratrol is predominantly found in muscadine grapes, Vitis vinifera and labrusca. These are the varieties of grapes used in making of wine. Resveratrol is concentrated on the skin of the grapes though it is also found to a certain extent in the seeds, roots and stalks. Resveratrol is also found in certain other plants like lily, eucalyptus and spruce and foodstuff like peanuts and mulberries.

As it has been proved time and again, consumption of wine or alcohol reduces the incidence of coronary diseases. This is true especially in case of red wine. Presence of resveratrol has been linked to this finding. Recent studies have proven that being a very effective antioxidant, resveratrol protects cells from lipid peroxidation.

Resveratrol is found to reduce aggregation of platelets thereby helping in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Studies are however inconclusive as they have been conducted only on tissue cultures in artificial environments. It is yet to be tested on animals and humans.

Resveratrol has found to inhibit formation of free radicals as it is a powerful antioxidant. This proves to be helpful during the initial stages of tumor formation. Resveratrol also shows potential in inhibition of cyclooxygenase - 1. Cyclooxygenase is an enzyme which promotes the formation of pro inflammatory substances by converting arachidonic acid. These substances are the root cause for stimulating the growth of tumor cells.

Polygonum Cuspidatum commonly known as the Japanese Knotweed is also a good source of naturally occurring resveratrol.

It is advisable to consult one's physician before deciding to take resveratrol supplements as a preventive measure for any ailment. As with any other drug which is in the research stages, it is better to wait for conclusive evidence and reports before proceeding to make it a part of our intake.

Resveratrol is sometimes offered in the form of a transdermal patch. This is similar to the nicotine patch. Apart from this, it is also manufactured in liquid form for easier consumption. It is always better to consult with the doctor before taking these supplements as a prevention or cure for any condition.

Tons of information can be found on the internet about Resveratrol. It really is the new darling of the supplement world. It also comes in liquid form for easy digestion. All the major supplement companies have a keen interest invested in the future of Resveratrol.

About the Author

Do you know anything about Resveratrol? It has been linked with cancer, heart disease and obesity prevention. Read more info about Resveratrol here.

You are here Articles > Health > Supplements and Vitamins