Technical

According to the Linus Pauling Institute, resveratrol is part of a class of polyphenolic compounds called stilbenes. Some plants produce resveratrol and other stilbenes as a response to stress, injury, ultraviolet radiation or fungal infection.

French Paradox

Some researchers believe that the resveratrol in red wine may account for the "French paradox," where people in France eat diets high in saturated fat yet have low rates of heart disease.

Study

A widely reported study, "A Low Dose of Dietary Resveratrol Partially Mimics Caloric Restriction and Retards Aging Parameters in Mice," published in June 2008, reported that low doses of resveratrol in the diet of middle-aged mice influenced the genetics of aging and possibly offered heart protection. This study has led to the promotion of resveratrol as an anti-aging supplement.

Counterpoint

According to the Linus Pauling Institute, although moderate alcohol use has been linked to a 20 to 30 percent reduced risk of heart disease, research does not yet support the belief that red wine polyphenols, such as resveratrol, offer any additional reduced risk.

Resveratrol Supplements

Resveratrol supplements are available and make a variety of claims. Work with your healthcare provider to determine if supplements might benefit you.

Source:

Agent in Red Wine Found to Keep Hearts Young

Linus Pauling Institute - Resveratrol

A Low Dose of Dietary Resveratrol Partially Mimics Caloric Restriction and Retards Aging Parameters in Mice