Resveratrol for Anti Aging

Hailed as a miracle cure for the effects of aging, Resveratrol is an antibiotic agent produced by plants when they are attacked by various bacteria and fungi. Its action is not limited to plants however, scientists have discovered that this compound can have a profoundly positive effect on other organisms as well. Extracted from the roots of the Hellbore plant in 1940, Resveratrol was identified as being present in the skin of the red grapes used to make red wine in the 1990′s. Long regarded as a healthy tipple, the secret of red wine seemed to have been unlocked at last.

The discovery was perhaps one of the most significant scientific discoveries of the last century. Why? Because Resveratrol has proven to have significant effects on the longevity of certain organisms. Tests on yeast compounds showed that those treated with the substance lived 60% longer than those that did not receive treatment. This sort of efficacy is unheard of in any other form of dietary supplement.

Resveratrol’s anti aging action hinges in large part on its ability to reduce the amount of DNA debris which is produced by cells as we age. Cells reproduce by replicating themselves, making copies of themselves over and over. When we are young this process is extremely effective, however as we age mistakes begin to creep into the copies, creating cells which are less healthy and productive than those in our youth. Resveratrol’s interaction with cells actually reduces the number and frequency of these copying errors, slowing the aging process.

Resveratrol does not only slow down cellular aging, it also counteracts gene expressions caused by high calorie and high fat diets. High fat and high calorie diets can have a devastating effect on the human body on a very deep level. Genes switched on by bad diet can lead to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

Scientists were surprised to discover that Resveratrol actually reversed gene changes in mice which had been fed high fat diets. Rats treated with Resveratrol exhibited reduced glucose levels, increased insulin sensitivity, and healthier organ tissues in the heart and lungs. They also became more active and ‘happier’ in their day to day lives, demonstrating high levels of alertness and activity. Reseveratrol therefore not only aided the rodents in living longer, it also ensured that they were able to enjoy their lives for longer too.

Resveratrol has not conclusively been shown to be effective in human subjects as yet, however many swear by various forms of Resveratrol supplement in the quest to slow the aging process and claim precious extra years of life.