Findings from published scientific literature indicate that resveratrol may be the most effective plant extract for maintaining optimal health.1 Resveratrol, a constituent of red wine and possessing diverse biochemical and physiological actions, has long been suspected to have cardioprotective effects.

Scientists have hypothesized that resveratrol may be a key component of the famous "French Paradox", whereby the French traditionally were protected despite a diet high in butter and animal fats. Resveratrol is a phytoalexin, a natural plant which is produced by vitis vinifera as a response to attack by molds. Because of the wide-spread use of pesticides in modern wine-making, including the practice of copper sulphation, the level of resveratrol in modern wines has plummeted. Red wine contains resveratrol, but the quantity varies depending on where the grapes are grown, the time of harvest, and other factors. In fact, usually only 1-3 mg resveratrol per liter of red wine is currently found, even in the most robust red wines.

Research funded by the Life Extension Foundation showed that a combination of low-dose (20 mg) resveratrol plus grapeseed extract mimicked many of the favorable gene expression changes seen in calorie-restricted animals. Other studies, however, indicate that higher doses may be needed to obtain all of resveratrol's positive benefits including improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced mitochondrial function, reduced expression of inflammatory factors, and protection against the toxic effects of a high-fat diet.

Life Extension has evaluated the published studies on resveratrol to establish the doses humans might need to take to duplicate the remarkable laboratory findings. The results of Life Extension's analysis yield a wide range of potentially effective doses: from 20 to 250 mg a day and higher. The resveratrol potency you choose may be based on your current state of health and/or your desire to reach the upper limits of a healthy human life span.

Cell culture studies suggest that resveratrol is a weak inhibitor of the liver metabolism system P450 3A4, but this interaction is of unknown significance in humans. Ingestion of large amounts of resveratrol may increase blood levels of drugs known to be metabolized via CYP3A4. This would include statins, calcium channel blockers, certain immunosuppressant drugs (e.g. cyclosporine), and drugs for erectile dysfunction (e.g. sildenafil). Caution is advised if used concurrently with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs such as Clopidogrel (Plavix®).