Resveratrol-What it can do for You!

Resveratrol is an antioxidant compound produced by certain plants as a natural defence against disease and attack by bacteria, fungi and other organisms that cause disease.

Resveratrol can be found in red grapes, red wine and red grape juice. The antioxidant is also present in the skins of peanuts (most raw peanuts are sold with their skins on); berries such as mulberries, blueberries and cranberries and dark chocolate.

Some of the benefits of Resveratrol include:

Increasing life span– lab studies have shown that resveratrol doubles the lifespan of yeast and also increases longevity in worms and fruit flies. A 2006 study also found that it extended the lifespan of fish by 56 per cent.

Guard against heart disease– resveratrol has been found to prevent changes in LDL cholesterol, which leads to hardening of the arteries and coronary heart disease. It has also been shown to reduce platelet clumping, so thinning the blood, which helps protect against heart disease.

Inhibit cancer– resveratrol has been shown in studies to diminish cancer development via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action, and by regulating normal cell growth.

And lastly, aiding weight loss– a 2006 study found resveratrol inhibits the action of an enzyme needed to convert sugars into fat, and reduces insulin levels, so therefore will reduce hunger and blood sugar imbalances.

Emma Driskel-Fitness Professional@Bexley