After flipping through some literature on resveratrol, I can’t help but feel quite amazed at its promising health benefits. But before dissecting these claims, let’s look at some basics.
Getting to Know Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a chemical compound manufactured by certain plants. It is known as a phytoalexin since plants naturally create it to serve as anantibiotic to combat both fungi and bacteria.
Sources
Resveratrol is found naturally in certain foods or healthy herbs. Plants with resveratrol include eucalyptus, spruce, lily, certain pine trees and Japanese knotweed. On the other hand, foods rich in this compound include grapes, mulberries, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, pomegranate and peanuts. Resveratrol in grapes can be found in the roots, vines, seeds and stalks, though the skin contains the highest concentration. It is because of this that’s why red wine is a popular source of the compound.
Health Benefits
With the list of healthy benefits associated with resveratrol, it becomes more understandable what all the raucous is about.
Neurodegenerative Effects
Cornell University research revealed that resveratrol consumption led to the decrease in plaque formation in the brains of humans. Furthermore, it’s been found to diminish the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Longer Life and Anti-aging Effects
Though the mechanics aren’t fully understood, it appears that resveratrol decreases the assimilation of fat through the intestinal walls.
Anti-viral Effects
Resveratrolseems to heighten the power of some antiretroviral drugs versus HIV in vitro.
Cardiovascular effects
Studies claim that drinking red wine may lessen the occurrence of coronary heart disease. Resveratrol also contains antioxidants with hydrophilic and lipophilic properties. As such, it may offer stronger protection than Vitamins E and C.
Cancer-Related Effects
The anti-carcinogenic property of resveratrol is largely due to its ability to slow down the increase of some human tumour cells in vitro.
Herbs for health and other natural sources of resveratrol are all around us. You don’t have to dig deep into your pockets to bask and enjoy its promising health benefits.
