Resveratrol is a chemical compound found in red grapes and products made from these grapes, such as wine and juice. It is also available in supplement form, which is the focus of this answer. Here are some details about resveratrol supplements:
Ingredients or materials:
- Resveratrol supplements available in the US contain extracts of the root of Polygonum cuspidatum, also known as Hu Zhang or kojo-kon.
- Resveratrol supplements may also contain other ingredients such as green tea extract, grape seed extract, vitamin C, acai extract, pomegranate extract, and blueberry extract.
Positive effects:
- Resveratrol is part of a group of compounds called polyphenols, which are thought to act like antioxidants, protecting the body against damage that can put you at higher risk for things like cancer.
- Resveratrol might have many effects in the body, including expanding blood vessels and reducing blood clotting. It may also decrease pain and swelling, reduce levels of sugar in the blood, and benefit blood fats in animals.
- Resveratrol supplements may increase weight loss in overweight and obese adults.
Negative effects:
- Resveratrol supplements have not been well-studied in people, so there is not enough data to confirm how well they work or what benefits and risks they might have.
- Resveratrol supplements could interact with medicines like blood thinners, blood pressure drugs, cancer treatments, MAOI antidepressants, antiviral and antifungal medicines, NSAID painkillers, and supplements like St. Johns wort, garlic, and ginkgo. Therefore, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking resveratrol supplements if you take any medicines or other supplements regularly.
- Resveratrol might change how quickly the liver breaks down some medications, which could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
In conclusion, resveratrol supplements contain extracts of the root of Polygonum cuspidatum and may also contain other ingredients such as green tea extract, grape seed extract, vitamin C, acai extract, pomegranate extract, and blueberry extract. While resveratrol is thought to act like an antioxidant and may have many effects in the body, there is not enough data to confirm how well it works or what benefits and risks it might have. Resveratrol supplements could interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking them.
