Trans-resveratrol, a phenol produced by plants in response to injury or bacterial attack, is a potent antioxidant found in fruits like blueberries, grapes, and raspberries, and may support heart health, blood sugar management, joint function, and liver health.
Trans-resveratrol is a chemical known scientifically as 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene. It is classified as a stilbenoid, which is a type of phenol. Trans-resveratrol is produced by several species of plants, typically in response to injury or attack by bacteria. This process must also be catalyzed by the enzyme resveratrol synthase. Animals metabolize trans-resveratrol quickly, especially in the liver and intestines. Trans-resveratrol is also metabolized in the lungs to some extent, depending on the species of animal.
The Japanese chemist Michio Takaoka first isolated trans-resveratrol in 1939 from Veratrum album, commonly known as false helleborine. The name “resveratrol” comes from the fact that it’s a derivative of resorcinol and was first extracted from a species of Veratrum. D. Sinclair reported in 2003 that resveratrol activated the SIRT genes in yeast cells, which influence various cellular processes. This development has resulted in further research to activate SIRT genes.
The most abundant dietary sources of trans-resveratrol include fruits such as blueberries, grapes, mulberries and raspberries, especially their skins. Fallopia japonica, commonly known as Japanese knotweed, is one of the most common commercial sources of trans-resveratrol. Japanese knotweed is an herbaceous plant that’s native to Eastern Asia. It is extremely hardy and is considered to be an invasive weed in Europe and North America.
The health uses of trans-resveratrol primarily relate to its antioxidant properties. These uses include the support of heart health, blood sugar management, joint function and liver health.
Trans-resveratrol may support heart health with protection against ischemic-reperfusion injury. It may also help to support the endothelium and inhibit platelet aggregation.
Oral supplements of trans-resveratrol may help to manage the accumulation fat around the liver.
Trans-resveratrol’s antioxidant activity may allow it to help support the body’s ability to manage normal blood sugar levels. It may also support kidney function for people with an unhealthy blood sugar level.
Some studies show that trans-resveratrol may inhibit the production of various enzymes that cause unhealthy joint conditions.
The most significant signs that you may need trans-resveratrol involve the blood. These signs include an unhealthy level of sugars and fats in the blood as well as unhealthy blood pressure. Liver conditions may also indicate that you may benefit from trans-resveratrol, including a fatty liver and an unhealthy level of bilirubin. Trans-resveratrol may help you if you have unhealthy levels of enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase, serum alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase.
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