Resveratrol Extract

Resveratrol is a key phytochemical in red wine, grapes, peanuts and other foods that is believed to protect the heart. Studies are also being done that indicate this phytochemical may be helpful in preventing obesity and diabetes, though the results are not yet conclusive. While it is difficult to consume enough resveratrol through a standard diet to reap all of its many benefits, resveratrol extract is available in supplement form.

Resveratrol is found in the highest natural concentrations in the skins and seeds of grapes and in  Japanese knotweed. Since the Japanese knotweed is less expensive to grow, it is now the common source for resveratrol extract. This allows supplement producers to keep the price reasonable, while using grapes would quickly become expensive, a cost that would be passed on to the consumer.

The extraction process begins by cutting the Japanese knotweed into slices. These slices are then heated in large metal extractors. After the plants are tested to rule out the presence of any dangerous chemicals or heavy metals, ethanol or other alcohol based solvent is used to remove the resveratrol from the plant. This results in the crude version of the extract. It is not yet ready to be offered to consumers.

After the original extract is removed from the knotweed, it is then further processed. First, it is run over a column of silica under high pressure. Then, it is dried to remove all traces of the solvent before being ground itno a fine powder. From there, it may be combined with other ingredients to form pills, powers or liquid forms of the resveratrol supplement.

The process for obtaining resveratrol extract from grapes is very similar. However, because it requires such a large number of grapes to obtain a useable amount of extract, grape derived supplements are very expensive. Scientists in Spain are currently working on a more cost-effective method to derive resveratrol extract from grapevines. This would make grape derived extract more affordable for the average consumer. However, until then, the extract taken from Japanese knotweed is high quality and allows more people to tap into the health benefits of resveratrol extract.

Just as the resveratrol you consume in natural foods such as peanuts, grapes and red wine, the extract holds a potential host of health benefits. Studies in laboratory mice have shown that it can improve artery health, reducing fatty blockages. It also increases the amount of good, or HDL, cholesterol. Additional studies have yielded result that hold promise for diabetes and obesity sufferers, as well as cancer patients.

So far, the studies have only been conducted on laboratory mice and other small mammals, rather than on humans. Yet, the people of France may be reason enough to look to resveratrol extract for heart health. In spite of a fat rich diet and high wine consumption, the French have a low rate of heart disease. Resveratrol is a key antioxidant in wine, particularly red wine, which is thought to be the main reason for this seeming paradox of rich diet and good heart health. It was just this paradox which led to the discovery and study of resveratrol.

Today, resveratrol extract is commonly available in most drug stores and health food stores. It may go by the name “Grapeseed Extract,” or any number of brand names. Read the label to know how much resveratrol is in each dose. However, keep in mind that resveratrol does not work alone. To maintain heart health, a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and other healthful ingredients, as well as regular vigorous exercise is a must.