The famed antioxidant chemical found in red wine has our cups running over. But WTF is resveratrol, actually, and how does it work?
WTF Is Resveratrol?
First off, they’re part of polyphenols, the colourful compounds in fruit and veg that contain a group of healthy nutrients. Resveratrol forms part of those nutrients, and it packs a punch. It’s thought they work like antioxidants by preventing illness-causing developments in the body. Some of the things it could prevent are inflammation and possibly cancerous growths.
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The Health Benefits
Ever heard of the French Paradox? Allow me to enlighten you. It’s a term that came about when scientists noticed that all the French seem to do is eat cheese, butter and carbs, and yet the incidence of cardiovascular disease remains suspiciously low. It’s thought that the consumption of red wine – owing to its rich resveratrol levels – could be contributing to the health of the French.
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Resveratrol’s CV is impressive. It’s been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation related to high-fat-high-carb diets and could protect against heart disease. There are also its anti-cancer properties, and preliminary studies found that it could prevent age-related changes in the body.
Where To Get It
The compound is commonly found in the skin of red grapes, but it’s also present in berries, peanuts. Most importantly, it’s found in red wine. Is it happy hour yet?
