Resveratrol: saved by the skin of a grape

Red Grapes.
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Have you been looking for that magic bullet, the fountain of youth, or a way to maintain or regain your energy? Try grapes! Yes, that’s right, grapes! The red ones, to be precise, have loads of biological ingredients that can do really good things for the body. These ingredients have seemingly complicated names like bioflavonoid and phytoalexin but they do a great job in the grape by keeping bugs and fungal infections away. And in the human, they thin out the blood, which is great for reducing the risk of a heart attack.

Just ask the French as they are well known for the tradition of drinking red wine (made from red grapes) at meals. It it is also well known that even though French men eat diets as high in fat as American men, the French have one-third less heart attacks than their American counterparts! The biological component in the skin of the grape responsible for this is a phytochemical called resveratrol. It is responsible for the antibiotic effects of the plant when it is under attack by a pathogen. And, based on the data from the most recent literature, it may also be responsible for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, scavenging free radicals (great anti-oxidant!), anti-inflammatory effects, and slowing down the aging process thus increasing the lifespan of certain animals. It is also used in many cosmeceuticals for skin beauty and health.[1]

Resveratrol is a natural biological wonder that can also be found in limited amounts in the Japanese knotweed (herbaceous plant) and in other foods like peanuts and blueberries. Studies have shown, however, that specific concentrations of it are required for noticeable effects. Resveratrol can be taken into the body through these select foods or it can be taken in supplemental form, which is actually the preferred method to obtain optimal benefits.[2]

Not only does resveratrol provide health benefits, the news tell us that it is the beauty secret of celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Kidman. And for those of you who are familiar with Dr. Oz (Oprah's friend and frequent visitor on her show) you also know that he supports this biological, anti-aging powerhouse. On Good Morning America, he recommended taking 500mg/day in supplemental form.[3]  If you experience undesirable side effects such as bloating or insomnia, you should start with a lower dose, such as 100mg, and work your way up slowly.

Nature has provided us with a sweet way to better our health and extend our lives. to So, based on the information provided to us through scientific studies, our ailments may be alleviated or even cured by resveratrol. In fact, due to its many health benefits, one could say that our lives may even be saved by the skin of a grape!

Reference links:

1. lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/phytochemicals/resveratrol/
2. www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/01/25/60minutes/main4752082.shtml
3. http://hubpages.com/hub/Dr-Oz-And-Resveratrol

Copyright ©2009 Joyce E.M. Wall