Resveratrol has now been considered as an anti-aging wonder supplement for years now but were you aware the same laboratory experiments that brought this marvellous substance to our attention also show resveratrol to be a useful aid to weight loss?
Since 2006 it has been known that resveratrol can counteract the negative effects of a high fat diet in mice. In a famous experiment some laboratory mice were fed a much higher fat diet than a control group but some of them were also given resveratrol. The group of mice also given resveratrol were found to be no more likely to die than the mice fed the normal diet. Their insulin and glucose levels were about normal though their cholesterol was elevated.
It should be noted that fully comprehensive testing on humans hs not yet been carried out but given the promising animal experiments and the so called ‘French Paradox’, it is not surprising there has been such interest in resveratrol as a weight loss aid. (The ‘French Paradox’ refers to the apparent ability of some Mediterranean people to be able to consume diets high in fats yet not suffer the usual bad effects of such a diet).
So what is resveratrol anyway? It’s a compound produced by some plants when they are under threat of bacterial infection. It is found in several plants including blueberries and grapes, where it is most plentiful in the skins. Its presence in grape skins means you'll drink some when you have some red wine though the concentration varies a lot depending on geographical area and grape variety.
It is also known to have anti-aging and anti-cancer properties as well as having a metabolism boosting effect so it is hardly surprising resveratrol has been of such interest in the health field. Some attention from TV shows has only helped boost this interest and demand.
While its often packaged with pictures of red wine or grapes, the resveratrol we get usually comes from Japanese Knotweed as this is the most economical method of harvesting. Whatever its plant origin, the resveratrol marketed as a supplement also varies in its quality, dosage and effectiveness so it is important to buy from a reputable supplier.
Because resveratrol is a rather delicate compound that breaks down easily, a variety of techniques are used to ensure a good dose reaches the bloodstream and is not broken down by the digestive system too early. This again means that you should choose your supplier carefully to avoid disappointment.
See More on **Resveratrol Weight Loss** at StripTheFat.org or Check out more on **Resveratrol Supplements** at LiveJournal
