In study after study, Resveratrol, a health promoting compound found in grapes, is being shown to cause the same favorable spectrum of gene expression as that of chronic caloric restriction, the only proven strategy for significant life extension. The great part is that we don’t have to live at the brink of starvation to reap the benefits. All the studies to date used animal subjects, but the alterations in gene expression are thought to be similar in all life forms, so it is not much of a stretch to think that these same benefits will hold true for humans.

Resveratrol is causing a firestorm of excitement on many fronts; promising benefits are anticipated in extending life, reversing Type-2 diabetes, preventing, slowing or reversing many forms of cancer, postponing Alzheimer’s Disease and many other degenerative diseases that accompany aging. Under the Anti-aging Category on these pages I have loaded a Resveratrol article for your reading, should you chose to explore this nutrient more in detail. There is a ton of information about Resveratrol on the internet, some cautionary (concern about the lack of long-term human trials), but most of the credible, science-based technical information is heavily positive.

Consider this quote from Quackwatch.org: “The health-food industry is claiming that resveratrol is the wine component responsible for the “French Paradox.” While taking resveratrol pills is certainly safer than heavy consumption of red wine, supplementing with unproven substances is generally unwise. At this point, occasional use of red wine seems far more prudent.”

I have not been one of those willing to wait for all the science to be locked in when I see a possible benefit to my specific situation. That approach puts you 10 to 15 years behind the benefit curve. I typically am optimistic about things that seem to make sense, based on my experience to date. I tend to try things that look reasonably promising of long-term benefit. Then I refine my strategies as the science gets more solid. Resveratrol seems more like a sure bet, with very low risk and long-term health benefits. I’m adopting it as a strategy for my own senior fitness.

Good Living – Frank