Gainesville, FL—Published research analyzed by the University of Florida suggests that resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and other fruits, may support healthy aging. A review article published online in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research investigated thousands of laboratory tests with enzymes, animals and cultured cells to probe the effects that resveratrol has on humans.

Heather Hausenblas, exercise psychologist from University of Florida, says, “We’re all looking for an anti-aging cure in a pill, but it doesn’t exist. But what does exist shows promise of lessening many of the scourges and infirmities of old age.”

She also believes that for years, researchers have thought that there was a correlation between resveratrol and human health, even though the extent of these benefits has not been proven conclusive for humans. For example, many experts say resveratrol supports heart health and this review article suggests “resveratrol has considerable potential to improve health and prevent chronic disease in humans,” according to a press statement. One mechanism of action is believed to be resveratrol’s role as an antioxidant. However, researchers also feel that several factors including exercise, age, chemical interplay of molecules and genetics, just to name a few also play a role in one’s overall health.

In summary, Hausenblas feels that resveratrol has the propensity to improve health, thereby preventing chronic diseases in humans.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, September 2011