Resveratrol is an anti-aging supplement that has seen a significant surge in interest within the past decade.
There appear to be positive benefits from resveratrol that can both slow down the aging process and promote improved health.
It is an anti-oxidant that can help to neutralize free radicals in the body, which is a leading source of age-accelerating damage. It appears to improve signs of aging on the skin when applied topically and supports lower cholesterol, weight maintenance, and cardiovascular health.
The main study linking resveratrol and life extension was one conducted on mice where high dosages of this supplement resulted in an increase in average lifespan.
However, it is important not to overstate the results that have been found in research up to this point. While studies have shown promising initial results, many of the health claims about this product are still under review and have not yet been verified.



- Anti-oxidant used to fight signs of aging
- Improves mitochondrial health & energy metabolism
- Reduces inflammation & increases blood flow
Resveratrol and Anti-Aging Effects
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Much research is currently being conducted to see exactly what the connection is between resveratrol supplements and anti-aging benefits.
The anti-aging supplement industry is lucrative and constantly growing, but many of these supplements may be marketed on the basis of dubious scientific claims.
When resveratrol was first discovered to have potential benefits for lifespan extension, there were many supplement manufacturers who began promoting the ingredient as a “miracle supplement” to help you live longer and healthier.
There have been some positive results reported in studies, but claims such as these should be met with skepticism.
The promotional language used to market resveratrol and its anti-aging benefits has become less sensational in recent times. Users are keen to know the specific scientific merits behind the claims rather than taking them at face-value.
Most of the research that has been carried out on resveratrol has been in the United States by Dr. David Sinclair, a biochemist at Harvard University.
Resveratrol and Nitric Oxide
Evidence has suggested that taking resveratrol supplements can increase the levels of nitric oxide in the blood. Nitric oxide is found naturally in the body, but levels decline as we get older. Low levels of nitric oxide can be a contributing factor to heart attacks, poor circulation and even strokes.
The reason for this is because it keeps our blood vessels dilated. When blood vessels become narrow and constricted, there is an increased risk of clotting which can cause serious health problems. If nitric oxide levels are increased, blood vessels dilate (or become wider) and blood circulation improves.
There are other effects of resveratrol that have been shown to improve cardiovascular health as well.
Resveratrol as an Antioxidant
Resveratrol is an anti-oxidant, which can also result in anti-aging benefits. Anti-oxidants can support a healthy immune system and may increase protection from disease.
Resveratrol protects the body from free radicals, which are naturally occurring as a result of energy metabolism and can cause our body to produce errors in our DNA as well as damaging cells.
As we age, the volume of free radicals in our bodies increase. This is one of the leading causes of winkles on our skin as our ability to produce compounds that keep skin feeling elastic is diminished. Free radical damage is also linked to higher risk of cancer and overall decline in cognitive function.
Resveratrol has been found to neutralize free radicals, which may help in slowing down this one form of age-related damage. Studies continue to examine the link between Resveratrol and anti-aging based on the antioxidant mechanism of action.
It has also been shown to balance hormone levels like testosterone and estrogen, which can improve sexual function in aging individuals.
How do you take Resveratrol?
Users taking resveratrol for anti-aging effects generally use the supplement on a daily basis in pill form. To improve skin appearance, a topical resveratrol cream is best.
While there has been limited research conducted on prolonged use of resveratrol, at the time of writing, there doesn’t appear to be any side effects associated with the regular consumption of the supplement. As with any supplement, you are advised to seek medical attention if you notice any negative changes following administration.
You should also speak to your doctor before using resveratrol if you are taking other medications that may interaction with this supplement. An example would be blood thinners or anticoagulants such as warfarin.
Dosage recommendations vary and depend on the source. Clinical studies conducted in 2012 at Harvard University stated that previous recommendations of 50mg dosages every day were insufficient and 200mg is more effective.
In other studies, amounts of 250mg to 500mg per day were found to be optimal for resveratrol anti-aging benefits.
It is also possible to derive this phytochemical from dietary sources such as red wine. It is found in high quantities within the skins of red grapes, but only becomes active during the fermentation.
Red wine, consumed in moderation, can be a good source of resveratrol and may confer additional anti-aging benefits. However, for long-term use as a supplement, pills or liquid formulations are considered to be better for your health.
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Article last updated on: May 10th, 2018 by Nootriment