Resveratrol is a natural compound belonging to the group of polyphenolsPolyphenols are a group of natural organic compounds that contain several phenolic groups (aromatic rings with hydroxyl groups -OH). They are widely distributed in plants and play an important role in their protection from ultraviolet radiation, pathogens, and oxidative stress., which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is found in some plants and foods, such as grapes, red wine, berries (blueberries, cranberries), peanuts, and cocoa. Resveratrol has attracted the attention of scientists and the public for its potential anti-aging and wellness effects.
Basic properties and mechanisms of action:
Antioxidant activity:
Resveratrol neutralizes free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress, which is one of the main causes of aging and the development of chronic diseases.
Anti-inflammatory effect:
Resveratrol suppresses the activity of pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines and enzymesEnzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. They ensure the occurrence of metabolic processes such as food digestion, energy release, cell formation, and many others. (such as COX-2), which helps reduce inflammation in the body.
Activating sirtuins:
Resveratrol activates sirtuin proteinsProteins are high-molecular organic substances consisting of alpha-amino acids linked in a chain by a peptide bond. In living organisms, the amino acid composition of proteins is determined by the genetic code. During synthesis, 20 standard amino acids are used in most cases. Many combinations of them determine the great diversity of properties of protein molecules. Proteins play a key role in the immune response and can perform transport, storage, catalytic, structural, and receptor functions. Proteins are an important part of the nutrition of animals and humans. The main sources of proteins are meat, poultry, fish, milk, nuts, legumes, and grains. (especially SIRT1), which play a key role in regulating cellular metabolism, repairing DNA, and extending cell life. This is one of the main mechanisms associated with the anti-aging properties of resveratrol.
Cardioprotective effect:
Resveratrol improves cardiovascular health by lowering ‘bad’ cholesterol (LDL), increasing ‘good’ cholesterol (HDL), and improving blood circulation.
Brain Protection:
Resveratrol can improve cognitive function, protect neurons from damage, and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Antitumor activity:
Research shows that resveratrol can inhibit the growth of tumor cells and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.
Regulation of metabolism:
Resveratrol improves insulin sensitivity, which may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Longevity Support:
Resveratrol is being studied in the context of prolonging life and slowing the aging process, although its effects on human life expectancy have not yet been proven.
Sources of Resveratrol:
Red wine: One of the most well-known sources, but alcohol consumption should be moderate.
Grapes: especially the skin and seeds.
Berries: blueberries, cranberries, raspberries.
Peanuts: especially red skins.
Cocoa and dark chocolate.
Dietary Supplements: Resveratrol is available in capsule, tablet, or extract form.
Resveratrol Application:
Anti-aging therapy:
Resveratrol is used to slow down the aging process and improve the overall health of the body.
Cardiovascular diseases:
It helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, improve blood circulation, and support heart health.
Neurological diseases:
Resveratrol is being studied for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Diabetes and metabolic syndrome:
Resveratrol can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
Oncology:
Although resveratrol is not a cure for cancer, it is being researched as an adjunct to prevention and therapy.
Cosmetology:
Resveratrol is used in cosmetics to protect the skin from aging and improve its appearance.
Dosage:
The optimal dosage of resveratrol depends on the purpose of use. Usually, the recommended dosage ranges from 100 to 500 mg per day. However, it is best to consult your doctor before taking the medication, especially if you have a chronic medical condition or are taking other medications.
Side effects:
Resveratrol is considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, in high doses, it can cause:
Upset stomach,
Nausea,
A headache,
Insomnia.
Researches:
Resveratrol is actively studied in the laboratory and in animal models. Many studies confirm its potential health benefits, but human clinical trials are still limited. More research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and long-term safety.
Conclusion:
Resveratrol is a promising compound with a wide range of potential health benefits, including anti-aging, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects.
Trans-resveratrol and resveratrol are essentially the same compound
but with an important clarification: trans-resveratrol is the biologically active form of resveratrol. To understand the difference, you need to consider the chemical structure and properties of these compounds.
Chemical structure:
Resveratrol:
Resveratrol exists in two isomeric forms: trans-resveratrol and cis-resveratrol.
Isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different spatial structures.
Trans-Resveratrol:
It is a biologically active form of resveratrol, which has all the beneficial properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects.
In nature, trans-resveratrol is more common than the cis-form.
Cis-resveratrol:
This form is less studied and has significantly less biological activity compared to trans-resveratrol.
Main differences:
Biological activity:
Trans-resveratrol is an active form that has a positive effect on health.
Cis-resveratrol has almost no biological activity.
Stability:
Trans-resveratrol is more stable than the cis-form.
When exposed to light, heat, or changes in pH, trans-resveratrol can turn into the cis form, losing its beneficial properties.
Sources:
In nature (for example, in the skin of grapes or berries), resveratrol is present mainly in the trans form.
In food supplements and cosmetics, it is important that trans-resveratrol is used, as it has a therapeutic effect.
Why is the Resveratrol form important?
Effectiveness: Trans-resveratrol is an active form that interacts with cells and has a positive effect on health.
Bioavailability: The trans form is better absorbed by the body than the cis form.
Stability: Trans-resveratrol can lose its properties if stored or processed improperly, so it is important to choose high-quality supplements and products.
How to distinguish trans-resveratrol from cis-form?
Marking:
Quality supplements and cosmetics should indicate the form of resveratrol. Look for the label ‘trans-resveratrol’.
Keeping:
Trans-resveratrol is sensitive to light and heat, so it should be stored in a dark, cool place.
Sources:
Natural sources, such as grape skins or berries, contain mostly the trans form.
Conclusion:
Trans-resveratrol is a biologically active form of resveratrol, which has all the beneficial properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects. Cis-resveratrol, on the other hand, is less active and does not have a significant impact on health. When choosing supplements or products with resveratrol, it is important to pay attention to the form of the compound and give preference to trans-resveratrol.
