Resveratrol is Key to Anti-Aging and Assists Weight Loss Efforts

(Article first published as Is Resveratrol the Key to Anti-Aging and Natural Weight Loss? on Technorati.)

Resveratrol is the protective bioactive nutrient found most commonly in the skin of red grapes, peanuts and cacao. Resveratrol provides a protective barrier against disease and fungus in plants which is also beneficial to human health. A wealth of information exists to support the function of resveratrol for brain rejuvenation, cardiovascular repair as well as influencing the metabolism of fat leading to natural weight loss.

Resveratrol Improves Endothelial Function Leading to Heart Health

Proanthocyanadins from the grape family have long been associated with heart health, and resveratrol now takes its deserved place at the top of the cardiovascular friendly nutrients list. The lining of the cells within the artery are known as the endothelium, and are very sensitive to dietary abuse caused by hydrogenated fats, excess sugar, cortisol and insulin. Damage to the endothelium leads to high blood pressure as well as micro cracks which are filled with foamy plaque, increasing the risk of heart attack.

The results of a peer reviewed study published in the online journal PLoS One, resveratrol was found to be a natural anti-aging agent and exhibited many of the same characteristics as calories restriction. This natural defense nutrient is able to act at the genetic level to influence genes which promote cardiac dysfunction and glucose metabolism. In addition to assisting weight loss goals, resveratrol can help to prevent heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Resveratrol Activates New Brain Synapses

One of the most important functions attributed to resveratrol is the activation of the anti-aging gene known as SIRT1. Previously, calorie restriction was the only known mechanism thought to positively influence this critical gene, but recent research demonstrates that resveratrol is also able to accomplish this longevity function. Since resveratrol is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, it is able to improve brain plasticity by generating new neural networks.

Resveratrol has been shown to reduce the normal rate of neurodegeneration while preventing memory impairment. Further, resveratrol has been shown to increase brain oxygenation which relates to increased memory capacity and improved cognition. Researchers are exploring the possibility that this amazing nutrient may play a role in the prevention of certain dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Resveratrol Inhibits the Formation of Fat Cells

Resveratrol has been shown to halt the formation of baby fat cells, thus providing an effective tool for the millions of people looking for a natural weight loss aide. Researchers demonstrated that fat cells make SIRT1 in direct proportion to the amount of resveratrol they are exposed to. SIRT1 halts the formation of immature fat cells which as they grow, contribute to the accumulation of dangerous abdominal fat.

Resveratrol also lowers levels of systemic inflammation which is implicated in many afflictions including heart disease, diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer’s, and inhibits the release of body fat from storage. Studies underscore the importance of resveratrol as an important tool in the fight against obesity, and show that it can provide favorable metabolic stability to assist weight loss.

It’s rare when one specific nutritional compound is attributed with the potential to lower the risk of multiple disease processes and assist weight loss. Resveratrol continues to fill the promise of cardiovascular and neurologic health as it directly influences the anti-aging SIRT1 gene, and provides support in the battle against obesity. Health conscious individuals will use this critical nutrient in a never ending battle to provide an edge against time, ageing and cellular deterioration.