Let’s take a more detailed look at some of Resveratrol’s powerful effects on the body…
The Brain – Dementia and Mental Functions
In November 2008, researchers at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University reported that Resveratrol significantly reduced plaque formation in the brain, a component of Alzheimers. They feel that oral doses of Resveratrol may reduce plaque associated with aging changes in the brain. (15)
Heart Disease
Resveratrol has been found to improve cardiovascular performance, prevent the absorption of copper (copper deficiency is a potential cause of heart failure), help maintain the heart’s oxygen supply, prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries and stop the constriction of blood vessels.(5)
Cholesterol
Resveratrol has also been found to neutralize “bad” LDL cholesterol while increasing “good” HDL cholesterols, which would reduce plaque build up in arteries which leads to heart attacks. (4)
Cancer
A 2008 study by researchers at the University of Nebraska suggest that Resveratrol may have some preventative benefits against breast cancer by disrupting the initial step that occurs when estrogen begins the process leading to cancer.
Researchers found that Resveratrol inhibits the growth of many types of cancer cells, including Leukemia, skin and prostate cancers, and reduces the incidence of tumors. Resveratrol has the potential to act as an alternative to synthetic hormone replacement therapy, which is known to increase the risk of breast cancer. (6, 7)
Cardiovascular System
Some studies suggest that the antioxidant properties of Resveratrol decreases the “stickiness” of platelets that form blood clots. (12)
Poor Diet
Resveratrol was found to counteract the life threatening effects of a high-fat diet by confronting and fighting 144 out of 153 gene pathways that had been altered by a high-fat diet. (2)
Diabetes
Scientists at the Peninsula Medical School in England discovered that Resveratrol protects blood vessels from cell damage which typically result from high glucose levels associated with Diabetes. It is the hope of many researchers that Resveratrol has the potential to greatly improve the treatment of Diabetes.
Weight Loss
When we diet or restrict the amount of calories we consume a natural reaction in our body is to activate Gene 31, our survival gene, which breaks down stored fat and increases energy levels. Numerous studies have shown that Resveratrol does the exact same thing.(18) Including Resveratrol as a supplement just may assist weightloss efforts, but without the diet. Weight loss and calorie restriction have also been proven effective against anti-aging, meaning if we take Resveratrol we may look healthier and feel younger.
Lowered Blood Sugar
A new study suggests that the Resveratrol can affect the enzymes involved in regulating glucose (blood sugar), and therefore could be an important component to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. (11)
Increase Quality and Length of Life
Multiple studies have found that Resveratrol can extend the life span of certain cells in our bodies by as much as 70%. Its ability to replicate the effects of calorie restriction, to boost the immune system and prevent a variety of diseases are all indicators that Resveratrol may play a huge role in increasing life span and quality of life. (18)
