Resveratrol – The Super Nutrient Helping You Live Longer!

By Matt Steinacher

Apowerful antioxidant, resveratrol has quickly become one of the most researched phytochemicals we know.  Resveratrol is primarily found in the skins of red and white grapes (significantly more in red), peanuts and berries.  We all know of the reported health benefits from drinking wine but we don’t all realise it’s quite probable these benefits are predominantly due to resveratrol. Resveratrol has been found to reduce the stickiness of platelets, constricting of arteries (blood pressure) and to have a cholesterol lowering action. It’s concluded that when consuming red wine (in a responsible manner) the physiological actions of resveratrol may help reduce the onset of cardiovascular disease in humans.

Further clinical trials have demonstrated resveratrol to also have an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-mutagenic action. Klatz and Goldmen (Anti-Ageing Revolution 2007;369-370) indicate resveratrol has been found to inhibit the initiation, promotion and progression of cancer.

Resveratrol and Anti-Ageing

Although research is early and limited, Borra et al (J boil Chem. 2005;280:17187-195) found that activation of Sir2 (sirtuin) enzyme dependent pathways increased the lifespan of organisms. Sir2 enzyme activation is also stimulated through calorie restricted diets and was responsible for the longevity promoting activity linked to these diets in vitro and vivo.

Resveratrol is not the only phytochemical to exhibit longevity like actions from our foods. Many Plant phytochemicals contain other antioxidants and saponins that may also help extend life. It’s now quite fair to say that by both removing high calorie junk food diets (cakes, lollies, biscuits, fast food) and replacing these with nutrient dense fresh organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish and chicken, together with the occasional glass of organic red wine may quite possibly activate Sir2 enzyme pathways enough to add a few extra years of wellness to our lives.

Note: the over consumption of alcohol is not beneficial to our health. Resveratrol found in wine can also be found in organic whole grapes, grape juice, berries and peanuts.  High dose resveratrol is also now available in supplemental form. For more information on your own dietary or supplemental intake resveratrol please contact Matt at Vive health.