Resveratol Meta Analysis Shows Anti-Aging Effects

GAINESVILLE, Fla.Research on resveratrol shows it has anti-aging, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, according to a new meta analysis from the University of Florida (Mol Nutr Food Res. 2011 Aug;55(8):1129-41. DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201100143.) The researchers said those findings were based on studies using purified enzymes, cultured cells and laboratory animal; however, data the effects of resveratrol supplementation on physiological responses in humans is still quite limited.

Resveratrols effect in humans has only recently been studied, and most research has described various aspects of its safety and bioavailability. Those studies have shown that it is generally well-tolerated, but has poor bioavailability. Very few published human studies have explored the ability of resveratrol to achieve the physiological benefits that have been observed in laboratory models, although many clinical trials have recently been initiated," the authors wrote.

However, for years many scientists have thought that a link between resveratrol and human health exists, according to Heather Hausenblas, one of the researchers involved in the study. The review, she said, shows resveratrol has considerable potential to improve health and prevent chronic disease in humans.

The study also reveals resveratrols contribution to good health promises to be widespread. Various clinical trials, for example, indicate this polyphenolan antibiotic substance produced by plants as a defense against microorganismsprevents the growth of some cancers in mice, inhibits enzymes that cause inflammation, shrinks tumors and increases blood flow, thus reducing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In many cases, it also extends the life of obese animals. Some evidence also shows that resveratrol could one day be used to help regulate insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients, according to Hausenblas, who is also a University of Florida exercise psychologist.

"This study validates what we've been saying for a long time," said Sarah Quadri, head of research and development for NeoCell. "There is an overwhelming amount of research that shows the variety of health benefits associated with resveratrol."