Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound found in many botanical
products. Red wine is a natural source of resveratrol as it is
rich in grape skin and seeds. However, resveratrol is usually
consumed as a dietary supplement for its purported antioxidant
and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also marketed as an
anti-aging supplement based on the findings that it prolongs the
life span of yeast cells (1) (2). This effect has not yet been
demonstrated in humans. Resveratrol is thought to have
cardioprotective effects. Earlier studies found that it reduces
the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL) and inhibits
aggregation of platelets and may offer protection against
atherogenesis (3) (4). Consumption of wine or a resveratrol-rich
grape supplement is associated with reduction in risk of
cardiovascular disease (5) (6) and may help promote health of
the circulatory system (7) (8) (9). Resveratrol can increase
insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients (10) (11). However,
clinical studies on the effect of resvera