Resveratrol Aids Weight Loss
Antioxidant, Anti-aging, Anti-inflammatory and Now a Diet Aid
Oct 21, 2008
Resveratrol, the polyphenol and powerful antioxidant found in grapes and red wine, may help with treating and preventing obesity according to a study by the German University of Ulm. The university’s Diabetes and Obesity department found resveratrol inhibited preadipocytes, human fat cell precursors, from increasing and developing into mature fat cells.
Similar to a Low Calorie Diet
Mice fed a high calorie diet supplemented with resveratrol were protected against obesity-related health effects. Although a single dose of up to five grams has shown no serious adverse effects in healthy volunteers, Dr. Pamela Fischer-Posovszky who led the study, cautions against high doses over long periods.
Grape Juice or Red Wine?
Grapes produce resveratrol, a polyphenol, to fight the bacteria and fungi found in large concentrations on their skins. There is a much higher concentration of resveratrol in red grapes than white varieties. Research on polyphenols has shown they can help prevent heart disease and cancer. Studies suggest red and purple grapes may have the same effect as red wine as it is the resveratrol, rather than the alcohol that has health benefits.
The juice from Concord grapes is particularly rich in antioxidants. Their thick, dark purple skin is also high in resveratrol and the juice is a more potent source than eating the grapes on their own. When the juice is pressed, the skin and seeds are also crushed allowing more antioxidants to seep into the juice over a period of time. Much of the goodness is concentrated in the skins and the seeds.
Cancer-fighting Antioxidant
Research at the Illinois College of Pharmacy in Chicago found resveratrol promoted cancer-preventative activity in three major stages of tumour formation. It also acted as an anti-mutagen by blocking other cell-changing agents from starting cancer. It is a powerful antioxidant and helps protect cells against free-radicals that damage DNA.
Other Resveratrol Facts
Resveratrol is an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-mutagen and a powerful antioxidant. It is also capable of reducing atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries, which can lead to heart disease. It reduces the risk of blood clotting. Resveratrol also lowers levels of LDL, the ‘bad’, cholesterol and raises HDL, or ‘good’ cholesterol levels.
Anti-aging
Resveratrol may also be the most powerful anti-aging tool around. Research at Harvard Medical School has found the life spans of all forms tested so far, including yeast cells, worms and mice, have been dramatically lengthened by administering small amounts of resveratrol.
Studies also suggest resveratrol may play a part in controlling arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
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