Resveratrol is a chemical found to occur naturally in plants and foods with red skins as well as in some types of nuts. It is known to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Resveratrol is also referred to as: Phtoestrogen, RSV, RSVL, Red Wine Extract, Kojo-Kon, Wine Extract, Wine Pill, or Stilbene Phytoalexin.

The most common source of resveratrol is red grapes themselves, red wine made from red grapes, the acai berry, pomegranate, cranberries, and blueberries. Peanuts, coco powder, dark chocolate, and Japanese knotweed are also sources of resveratrol.  The amount of resveratrol in red wine can vary depending on the type of red grape from which the wine is made.  Generally the darker red the wine the higher the level of resveratrol – the darker red wine types include Pinot Nior, Merlot, Carbernet, and Shiraz.  Do not drink only red wine and consider it your resveratrol supplement because too much alcohol can cause many harmful effects to the body.

Resveratrol is said to prevent heart disease, reduce risk of stroke, prevent brain and cell degeneration thus preventing Alzheimer’s, reduces the risk of blood clots, reduces the risk of inflammation in the body, promote a stronger immune system, reduce the risk of liver disease, and prevent cellular level dysfunction. It is also said to prevent certain types of cancer and arthritis.

Resveratrol is said to promote the antioxidant levels in the body, helps to burn body fat, helps with good cholesterol, provides natural energy, and works as an anti-aging supplement.

Suggested Dose

Resveratrol supplements come in a power form, pill form, tablet form, and liquid form.

There have been several studies, research conducted, and there is still a debate concerning the proper dosage of resveratrol.  There general consensus is the results are different for each person.

For an adult (over 18 years of age) a low dosage of resveratrol is 100 to 150 mg per day.  A medium dosage is 500 to 1500 mg per day.  A dosage of resveratrol over 1500 mg is considered to be high. In order to determine if you should take a low, medium, or high dosage of this supplement, talk with your doctor and ask for a urine test to determine the a resveratrol level in your blood.

The higher doses of the resveratrol supplement may cause diarrhea.

You can buy resveratrol at a pharmacy, health food store, or online.

Health Information

Side effects associated with taking a resveratrol supplement may include: insomnia; anxiety; diarrhea; stomach pain; flu like symptoms; decreased appetite; tendinitis pain; and joint pain in the hands, feet, and hips.

Resveratrol supplements act as a blood thinner, do not take this supplement if you are currently taking a prescription anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication due to possible, even deadly, drug interaction.

Safety Information

As when taking any medication or supplement, always read the label and take only as directed. Talk with your medical professional before taking a resveratrol supplement if you are taking prescription medication in order to reduce the risk of drug interaction. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any unusual side effects.