Resveratrol, otherwise known as a red wine catechin (a type of phenol and antioxidant), is used for cardiovascular health, aging skin and improving blood cholesterol levels. Resveratrol supplements are available in doses (tablets or capsules) of 500 mg, 250 mg and 100 mg.
Red wine catechins come from species of the grape family, such as Vitis vinifera or Vitis labrusca. The skin of red wine grapes is known to contain high levels of antioxidants.
Seventy plant species are known to contain resveratrol, including nuts, grapes, pine trees, vines and red wine. 500 mg resveratrol tablets are typically sourced from Japanese knotweed (polygonum cuspidatum) extract, but there are other natural sources of this ingredient as well. [1]
Consumers typically buy resveratrol 500 mg pills to fight oxidative damage, promote general health and as a pro-longevity supplement. There is research showing some health benefits, but the widespread claims that this supplement can increase lifespan are believed to be unfounded.



- Anti-oxidant used to fight signs of aging
- Improves mitochondrial health & energy metabolism
- Reduces inflammation & increases blood flow
Resveratrol 500mg Supplements
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Resveratrol 500mg, 250 mg and 100 mg supplements are typically available in tablet or capsule (soft gel) form. Resveratrol is often taken as a source of antioxidants and used to support cardiovascular health.
Antioxidants protect the body against the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals damage and destroy normal and healthy cells in the body.
The antioxidant properties found in red wine catechins, as well as in purple grape juices, chocolate and some berries, are thought to promote a number of healthy effects.
For example, antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals that could otherwise damage cell membranes and DNA. Cellular damage is hypothesized to contribute to the development of some forms of cancer.
In fact, resveratrol has been studied in relation to the treatment of certain cancers because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In laboratory experiments it has been observed to suppress and prevent the progression of some cancer cells.
More research is needed to understand if these effects will be helpful in the treatment of human cancer.
Resveratrol and Heart Disease
Resveratrol 500mg tablets have been studied for their impact on the cardiovascular system. People often take the supplement to help promote cardiovascular health.
Researchers first became interested in the relationship between resveratrol and heart health because of the so-called “French paradox”.
The paradox is rooted in the observation that the French have a lower mortality rate from coronary heart disease than other industrialized countries with a similar risk profile for the development of the disease.
Some researchers hypothesize that the common and routine consumption of red wine by the French may be responsible for this observation. [2] Resveratrol is the component of red wine that researchers have focused on for its ability to support heart health and ward off heart disease.
Resveratrol 500 mg supplements are used to help reduce the development of atherosclerosis or atherosclerotic plaques commonly linked to coronary artery disease.
It is thought to help reduce the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, otherwise known as bad or LDL cholesterol. This form of so-called “bad” cholesterol is one of the main components needed for the hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis) and heart disease.
Resveratrol Supplement Research
Resveratrol 500 mg, 250mg and 100 mg are also used for their anti-inflammatory effects. Resveratrol has also been observed to trigger the release of cytokines (proteins released by cells of the immune system), which may support immune function.
This compound is being studied for its efficacy in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In one preliminary study, a combination product containing 10 mg resveratrol along with vitamin C, zinc and flavonoids was observed to mildly alleviate cough and spectrum production in individuals with mild-to-moderate COPD. [1]
Resveratrol has been investigated in laboratory experiments to examine its effect on cancer cells. In some of these studies, resveratrol has been observed to trigger the death (apoptosis) of certain diseased cells, particularly prostate cancer cells. It is being investigated for the ability to inhibit three major enzymes (CYP1A1, 1A2, and 1B1) linked to tumor cells.
Resveratrol is also commonly taken as an anti-aging supplement. In laboratory experiments, resveratrol has been observed to activate a specific gene (SIRT1) that may help protect against some diseases associated with aging. However, more clinical studies are needed to establish the efficacy of resveratrol supplementation for clinical purposes.
Resveratrol Safety Ratings
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive database rates resveratrol as “Likely Safe” in doses of up to 250 mg daily for up to three months. It is also rated “Likely Safe” when consumed via one’s diet. However, red wine is not a good consistent form of resveratrol because of its alcohol content. [1]
When using resveratrol supplements, be aware of the differences between manufacturers and brands. For example, some resveratrol supplements contain 500 mg of herbal extract that yields approximately 250 mg of active trans-resveratrol. Others contain 500 mg of resveratrol per single capsule serving. Be sure to follow label instructions or the directions of your physician.
Resveratrol 250 mg supplements can be taken up to four times a day with meals. Resveratrol 100 mg supplements also promote heart health and support metabolism and can be taken two times daily, again with meals.
Resveratrol Contraindications
Pregnant or nursing women should speak to their physician before taking resveratrol products.
Individuals currently taking prescribed medications for hormone-sensitive cancers should not take resveratrol because it may activate androgen and estrogen receptors. These receptors can stimulate cancer cell growth in hormone-related cancers.
Individuals with blood clotting disorders should not take resveratrol 500 mg pills because it has been observed to thin the blood. Individuals taking blood thinners such as Coumadin or warfarin or even over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, should not take resveratrol.
Be aware of where the supplement comes from. Some resveratrol supplements are made from the extracts of red wine or red grapes, but others, especially those manufactured in other countries, may utilize extracts that come from Chinese or Japanese knotweed plants (Polygonum cuspidatum). Dosages as well as potency can vary depending on manufacturer.
Long-term clinical studies regarding the safety and efficacy of resveratrol are limited. Consult with your physician before taking 500 mg resveratrol supplements.
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- Resveratrol: Professional Monograph. Natural Medicines Therapeutic Research. Reviewed 2013 Mar 11, Updated 2015 Aug 26.
- Lippi G, Franchini M, Favaloro EJ, Targher G. Moderate red wine consumption and cardiovascular disease risk: beyond the "French paradox". Semin Thromb Hemost. 2010 Feb;36(1):59-70.
- Mezzano D, Leighton F, MartÃnez C, et al. Complementary effects of Mediterranean diet and moderate red wine intake on haemostatic cardiovascular risk factors. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2001 Jun;55(6):444-51.
- Gurusamy N, Lekli I, Mukherjee S, et al. Cardioprotection by resveratrol: a novel mechanism via autophagy involving the mTORC2 pathway. Cardiovasc Res. 2010 Apr 1;86(1):103-12.
- Baur JA, Sinclair DA. Therapeutic potential of resveratrol: the in vivo evidence. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2006 Jun;5(6):493-506.
- Poulsen MM, Fjeldborg K, Ornstrup MJ, et al. Resveratrol and inflammation: Challenges in translating pre-clinical findings to improved patient outcomes. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2015 Jun;1852(6):1124-36.
Article last updated on: March 13th, 2018 by Nootriment