enter image code: *
Resveratrol has been found to extend the life of fruit flies, short living fish (by up to 56%), and nematode worms. Experiments are being done to see if it is able to have the same impact on humans. It has been hypothesized that perhaps it is the weak toxic action in resveratrol that stimulates defense mechanisms and therefore results in life extension. The effects of life extension are not yet fully understood, but have been theorized to mimic the biochemical effects of calorie restriction.
Perhaps the most widely publicized report is that from Harvard Medical School that demonstrates that resveratrol activates a longevity gene in yeast, and can extend the life by up to 70%. Resveratrol activates sirtuin genes, the same as calorie restriction.
Tests on mice have had positive results in the areas of bone health, volume and density. Enhanced co-ordination was reported, and less cataracts. Resveratrol did not extend the life of mice on a regular diet, suggesting that it only affects part of the aging process, not all.
These test suggest that resveratrol has enormous potential as an anti-aging supplement, although further tests need to be done to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Although it has not yet been proven in humans, tests have been conducted on mice that suggest the weight loss benefits of resveratrol. It is believed that it works as an appetite suppressant, and that the antioxidant properties help to speed up metabolism, resulting in weight loss. SiRT1 has been identified as the gene that lengthens lifespan.
This happens through calorie restriction. SiRT1 breaks down fat stores when energy is restricted as a defence against starvation. If someone eats too much, fats stores send out inflammatory compounds, which causes free radical damage. Arteries get choked with fat, blood pressure is raised and insulin levels become high. Leptin is introduced, which creates a false sense of starvation.
Overeating creates more leptin, and the leptin drives people to eat, and the cycle continues. Historically food was scarce, so we haven’t yet developed a natural way to deal with this problem. Dieting clears excess leptin from your body.
Resveratrol aids this process. Its anti-inflammatory properties help improve function in those that have diabetes. It also promotes bone health and regulates cell health.