The largest source of resveratrol which is actually an antioxidant produced by certain plants as a reaction to environmental stress is grapes. Actually, the skin of grapes contains this phytoalexin in abundance. This is the reason why the resveratrol content is more in red wine.
This antioxidant does not allow fungal infections to affect the plant and also protects the plant from heat. Cooler climates can see more of resveratrol as it is here that there are more chances of fungus infecting the plants.
Though the curative effects of resveratrol are only in the research stages, this antioxidant shows a lot of promise in the cure of heart diseases and cancer. It reduces the risk of heart attacks and clotting of blood with the property by which it reduces the aggregation of platelets in the blood. Resveratrol also shows promise of damage prevention of free occurring cells. This property shows promise in the treatment of cancer.
Wine is an excellent source of resveratrol. It is found more in red wine as the fermentation period is long. Another factor influencing the amount of resveratrol in wine is the environment the grapes are grown in. If they are from humid conditions, resveratrol content is found to be higher. This is due to the fact that grapes tend to be affected by fungal diseases in humid areas due to the moisture content.
On arid areas of land grapes do not have a large amount of this antioxidant. This is because there are chances of fewer fungal diseases infecting the skin of the grapes here.
Blueberries are another natural source of resveratrol. A lot of antioxidants are present in blueberries along with resveratrol. Peanuts and peanut sprouts are also found to be excellent natural sources of resveratrol.
Resveratrol show promise in inducing differentiation in promyelocytic leukemia cells in humans. It also shows potential in inhibition of ribonucleotide reductase which is an enzyme particularly found in proliferating cells during DNA synthesis. The most positive factor in all this is that resveratrol shows a lot of positive potential in cancer treatment due to the fact that it produces negligible toxins which affect the blood forming cells.
However, as with all substances, it is prudent to wait for further research and analysis before using this antioxidant as a sure treatment or preventive measure for any condition. Though resveratrol displays a very strong positive potential in certain conditions like coronary disease and cancer, there is a long way to go before it can be determined whether these diseases can be helped with this antioxidant or not.
Resveratrol is sometimes offered in the form of a transdermal patch. This is similar to the nicotine patch. Apart from this, it is also manufactured in liquid form for easier consumption. It is always better to consult with the doctor before taking these supplements as a prevention or cure for any condition.
Tons of information can be found on the internet about Resveratrol. It really is the new darling of the supplement world. It also comes in liquid form for easy digestion. All the major supplement companies have a keen interest invested in the future of Resveratrol.
