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Resveratrol may be good for anti-aging, cardiovascular health and more
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Courtesy fitandhealthy.com
I was watching Oprah some time ago and Dr. Oz, a regular on her show, mentioned Resveratrol as a supplement that shows promise for use in anti-aging and cardiovascular health. Then, while researching for natural products that work against the swine flu, I find that Resveratrol listed once again as a supplement that seems effective against it. So, I decided to read up a little more and do some research of my own. As a result, I am now taking it.
What is Resveratrol? It is a plant chemical found in grape skins, grape seeds, purple grape juice, red wine and somewhat in peanuts. It is also found in Japanese knotweed. Most of the supplements that can be purchased today are derived from one or more of these sources. There is little scientific research available on this supplement, but test tube experiments show that it has demonstrated anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-platelet, cholesterol-lowering, and mild estrogenic effects. More research is necessary, but this is promising.
When little scientific research is forthcoming, I do research myself and recommend it to anyone taking any supplement, herb or prescription medication. Read what other say are the positive results and the side effects. An informed decision based on the experience of others is often the best decision. There are positive comments and some noted minor side effects reported.
First, we will look at the positive comments. Resveratrol does appear to increase mental focus! Many users of it have reported longer periods of concentration. Athletes report an increase in endurance. Heart patients have reported a reduction in total and LDL cholesterol. Others report benefits to cardiac health, anti-aging, and use against the H1N1 or swine flu virus. Still more report that it reduces Irritable Bowel Syndrome (from grape, not knotweed sources).
Now, for the possible side effects (and some side effects are not necessarily negative). Some have a buzzed or dizzy feeling. Others report insomnia at the onset, then a reduction in this problem after two weeks. There have been reports of elevated blood pressure, too. The one thing most often reported is stomach cramp and diarrhea, which likely indicates the supplement they are taking has high emodin content. A reputable manufacturer is the key to solving this issue. I have not noticed any side effects personally.
“Officially”, doctors want to wait on FDA approval before people take this supplement. However, the FDA approves very dangerous drugs every day and this writer has no faith in any approval or disapproval they may give. You should follow your own conscience in this, but the best advice for anything you put into your body is to take control of your health yourself and educate yourself as much as possible on each supplement, herb or drug you are considering. Read up on the experiences of others already taking it and make the decision for yourself. Do not wait on the government to tell you what to do.
Remember, there is little baseline research on Resveratrol at this time. If you do decide to take it, start with a low dose and work up to the recommended dose. I did this, and did not experience any side effects as a result. Everyone is different and doses vary for each person. Bookmark some of the links for information on Resveratrol that are throughout this article. They will publish new information on a regular basis. Knowledge is power!
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