Resveratrol Shows Heart Health Benefits

A newly released study suggests that taking a resveratrol supplement may increase flow mediated dilation (FMD) by 23%. FMD measures the ability of an artery to contract as blood flows through it - the higher your FMD, the better.

Resveratrol is the powerful antioxidant found in red wine and is the force behind the “French paradox,” which describes the low incidence of heart disease and obesity among the French, despite their relatively high-fat diet and levels of wine consumption.

The study included 28 individuals who were obese and had mild hypertension. They received either 75mg of resveratrol or a placebo daily for six weeks. Following that, the groups switched interventions for another six weeks.

The participants were assessed by BMI, blood pressure and FMD throughout the study. While the effects on FMD were very positive, the researchers noted no effects on blood pressure or BMI, which are other factors that can potentially affect heart disease.

The study was conducted at the University of South Australia and presented at the 24th Scientific Meeting of the International Society of Hypertension the week of September 30th, 2012.

Resveratrol has been the subject of a number of studies recently that have shown it to be a powerful antioxidant with health benefits that include increasing energy levels, lowering cholesterol, improving brain health, reducing the appearance of aging, lowering the risk of lung cancer, improving metabolism, regulating blood glucose levels in diabetics and improving liver function.

This antioxidant can be found in red wine, grapes, grape seed extract, and peanuts. A glass of red wine a day can provide a good amount of resveratrol, but excess drinking will reverse the positive health benefits. Another good way to get resveratrol is through a high quality supplement.