Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound produced by plants as a defense mechanism against disease, classified as a polyphenolic phytoalexin. Known chemically as trans-3,4',5-trihydroxystilbene, it is found predominantly in the skins of red grapes and in products like red wine, berries, and peanuts. Resveratrol is often associated with cancer prevention due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for its potential to prevent various types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and colon cancers. Additionally, it may influence biomarkers related to neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. However, its effectiveness in humans remains uncertain, with laboratory results not always translating to clinical benefits, particularly in estrogen-sensitive cancers where it may even stimulate cell growth. While there are no reported severe side effects, caution is advised for individuals with food allergies to resveratrol-containing foods and for those with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers, as well as those on certain medications. More human studies are needed to establish effective doses and understand its health implications fully.
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Subject Terms
Resveratrol
- ALSO KNOWN AS: Trans-3,4’,5-trihydroxystilbene, polyphenolic phytoalexin
- Cancers treated or prevented:Leukemia, prostate cancer, breast cancer, stomach cancer, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer, skin cancer
DEFINITION: Resveratrol is a compound manufactured by plants as part of their defense mechanism against disease. These compounds belong to the stilbene chemical classification and are also known as polyphenolic phytoalexins. Resveratrol has become synonymous with cancer prevention and is thought to have protective antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and life-extending properties.
Delivery routes: Oral via food and dietary supplements; significant food sources include red grapes, red wines, red and purple grape juice, berries (including raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, and bilberries), peanuts, and peanut butter
How this substance works: Resveratrol is a stilbene compound manufactured by plants as a defense mechanism against diseases. It is primarily found in red grape skins, and laboratory experiments find that it functions as an antioxidant against cell-damaging free radicals. It has also been found to prevent some cancers, slow or halt the stages of cancer progression and metastasis, decrease inflammation and heart disease, and extend life span. Its chemical structure is very similar to estrogen, and it is considered a phytoestrogen compound. Continued studies in the second and third decades of the twenty-first century found resveratrol to be effective in influencing disease biomarkers of neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. However, its effectiveness in treating cancer has been less straightforward. While it has shown some promise in preventing estrogen-sensitive cancers, one study found that it stimulated the growth of breast cancer cells. Although the number of studies testing resveratrol in humans remained limited, initial results showed that the body rapidly metabolizes it. Thus, blood levels of resveratrol may not reach the protective levels that have been observed in the lab setting, and it may only provide limited health benefits to humans. More human studies remain necessary. Recommended doses for resveratrol have yet to be determined.
Side effects: Caution is advised for individuals with food allergies or sensitivities to resveratrol-containing foods. There have been no reported side effects or drug interactions, but women with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers are advised to avoid resveratrol dietary supplements because of their estrogen-like chemical structure. Individuals taking anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should also avoid dietary supplements, as high doses of resveratrol may increase the risk of bleeding. Unsafe intake of alcohol should be avoided, as it may increase cancer risk as well as other health risks.
Bibliography
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