All about resveratrol

10 january 2024

Resveratrol is a plant compound primarily found in the skin of blue grapes. It has antioxidant properties, thereby protecting our cells and tissues. Are you curious about what exactly resveratrol is, where it can be found, and what it can mean for your health? Read on to discover everything about this compound.

What is resveratrol?

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring polyphenol known for its powerful antioxidant properties. It plays a role in protecting plants from stress factors and offers similar benefits to the human body. Resveratrol is mainly found in the skin of blue grapes, making it one of the key compounds in red wine. Additionally, resveratrol is also found in the Japanese knotweed. This herb is traditionally used in Asian medicine and is one of the richest sources of resveratrol.

Did you know that resveratrol is often associated with the beneficial effects of red wine on heart and vascular health? However, this benefit does not outweigh the drawbacks of the alcohol also present in wine.

Forms of resveratrol

Resveratrol exists in two forms: the cis and trans form. Studies show that only the trans form is absorbed by the body. Trans-resveratrol can be converted into the ineffective cis-resveratrol under the influence of UV light. This is why resveratrol supplements are stored in a dark container that protects the products from ultraviolet light.

Sources of resveratrol

Resveratrol can be found in various foods:

Blue grapes (especially the skin)
Red wine
Japanese knotweed
Blueberries
Cranberries
Peanuts
Tomatoes
Olives

What does resveratrol do?

Resveratrol is known for its powerful antioxidant properties, meaning it can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Want to know more? Discover all about antioxidants.

Health effects of resveratrol:

Antioxidant effect: Protects cells from oxidative stress and free radicals.
Anti-inflammatory: Can reduce inflammation in the body.
Heart health: Supports a healthy cardiovascular system.
Potential anti-ageing effects: Research suggests that resveratrol may be involved in slowing down the ageing process.

Can I take resveratrol supplements during pregnancy?

The use of resveratrol supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not widely recommended due to the lack of extensive studies in this area. Always consult your healthcare provider before using supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Buying resveratrol: what to look for

If you want to buy resveratrol, it is advisable to pay attention to a few things. The quality of a resveratrol supplement depends on, among other things, the form of resveratrol, the dosage, and the additional ingredients.

Resveratrol comes in two forms: cis and trans. Trans-resveratrol is particularly important because this form is best absorbed by the body. Therefore, check the product information to see if this is clearly stated. If it is not mentioned, you can often assume it is a less absorbable form. You can also look for quality marks to ensure that what you are buying has been well researched and meets strict quality standards.

Additionally, the dosage varies per supplement. Some products contain a low dosage suitable for daily use, while others contain a higher dosage for temporary extra support. You can weigh the price against this before buying a resveratrol supplement: sometimes a product seems more expensive, but due to the dosage (for example, 1 instead of 2 capsules per day), it turns out to be cheaper.

In conclusion

Resveratrol is a valuable antioxidant that protects us from external influences. Enrich your diet with resveratrol-rich foods and consult an expert if you are considering using supplements. At Vitaminstore, we are always ready to provide you with high-quality products and personal advice.

Are you interested in adding resveratrol to your diet or want to know more about its health benefits? Visit a Vitaminstore shop near you, or contact our health coaches via online chat for personal advice.