Resveratrol is a phenol, not a flavonoid, the antioxidant substance of great help for our body able to fight free radicals. It is produced by different plants, it is present in the wine (through the vine) in the chocolate (through the cocoa), in the blackberries. As an antioxidant, it has a protective purpose against pathogens such as fungi or bacteria.

In this article, we will understand what are its main benefits, food sources and the usefulness of possible integration.

Resveratrol, the red anti-ageing

Benefits of resveratrol

As an antioxidant, the first benefit is to reduce oxidative stress, in particular, that resulting from physical activity. The intense activity, especially that of muscle endurance, leads to a very strong oxidative stress that our body must face and this is the cause of a speeding up of the processes of ageing and damage to our body.

Resveratrol has also been shown to stimulate nitric oxide, thus promoting blood circulation and vasodilation. Always connected to cardiovascular health, it is able to decrease blood pressure and improve blood flow to the brain.

Resveratrol decreases blood sugar and helps maintain blood glucose levels stable by improving carbohydrate management and insulin sensitivity. This effect, along with a decrease in basal insulin in the morning, was found in people with metabolic syndrome.

Always linked to metabolic syndrome, resveratrol seems to decrease the markers of liver stress (not pathological) and bad cholesterol (LDL) as well as triglycerides.

For these reasons, resveratrol has been identified as one of the most interesting substances not only to combat ageing but, specifically, to reduce the risk of stroke and cardiovascular accidents by intervening in different patterns.

Where to find him?

Resveratrol is a famous component of wine, in particular, red wine but, to take it, we can find richer sources (without the need to drink alcohol). We find it in large quantities in the red and black blueberries, in the current and in the strawberry. In general, the berries are rich in them. It is present in small quantities in the grape, less in the white one. Traces also in pistachios, peanuts and dark chocolate.

Integration of resveratrol

Resveratrol (under trans-resveratrol) can be very useful in case we want to maximize its beneficial effects. Just think that the richest source, blueberry, gets to have 3mg/100gr and the recommended supplement is 250-500mg (we should eat more than 1kg of blueberries a day!).
Our advice, however, is to give priority to food sources and supplement it for some periods to include any negative markers of their blood profile, under the advice and supervision of the doctor.

Conclusions

A rich and balanced diet allows us to eat and assimilate fantastic and beneficial nutrients in our bodies.

Knowing the various active ingredients that are beneficial to our health, gives us greater awareness in choosing our diet.