Contrary to previous findings, a recent study suggests that resveratrol might not reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer or death from any cause.
Resveratrol is a natural compound that is found in more than 70 plant species, including nuts, grapes, pine trees, and certain vines, as well as in red wine. It is thought to play a role in preventing heart disease. Much research has focused on the potential health benefits of resveratrol due to the "French paradox," the finding that death rates from heart disease are lower in France, where red wine consumption is common.
In a new study, researchers analyzed data on 783 older men and women from the Invecchiare in Chianti (InCHIANTI) Study to assess the effects of resveratrol levels on the risk of death from any cause. Levels of resveratrol in the urine were measured, and markers for inflammation, cancer, and heart disease were also assessed.
Throughout the 9 year follow-up period, 268 of the participants died. The researchers found that from highest to lowest levels of resveratrol, the proportion of people who died from any cause was 34.4%, 31.6%, 33.5%, and 37.4%, respectively. Resveratrol levels were also not associated with inflammation or the risk of heart disease or cancer.
The authors concluded that resveratrol concentration in the urine is not associated with the risk of death from any cause, including heart disease and cancer. Further research is warranted.
For more information about resveratrol, please visit Natural Standard’s Foods, Herbs & Supplements Database.
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2024 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
