Resveratrol – the world's best polyphenol?
Resveratrol is a polyphenol, a type of antioxidant, that occurs naturally in several plants like grapes and blueberries. It is perhaps best known for its presence in red wine, where it accumulates in the grape skins during the winemaking process.
This compound has attracted significant scientific interest for its potential beneficial health effects. One of the most prominent features of resveratrol is its powerful antioxidant capacity. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can trigger oxidative stress, which may lead to inflammation and chronic diseases.
Does resveratrol reduce the risk of obesity?
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that resveratrol prevents the formation of white adipocytes (fat cells) and reduces the risk of obesity. Additionally, resveratrol downregulates the inflammatory signals IL-6 and IL-8.