Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a natural compound found in certain foods, including grapes, berries and the roots of plants like Japanese knotweed. Resveratrol is part of a group of compounds called polyphenols, which are naturally occurring micronutrients found in plants.

Research has shown that polyphenols, such as resveratrol, act as effective antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties, protect against cancer cell growth, help to lower blood pressure, may increase lifespan and also inhibits yeast infections, and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.

Most studies on Resveratrol have seen beneficial effects from doses between 250-500 milligrams per day.

It would be nearly impossible to benefit from the effects of resveratrol through your diet alone; research has shown that food and drink sources do not contain enough of the compound for it to provide any of the health benefits.

You would need to take a Resveratrol supplement in order to gain the benefits.

Resveratrol has been widely studied and has been noted for its apparent lack of toxicity. Though fewer studies have specifically looked at the side effects of Resveratrol, the consensus is that like most supplements, adverse effects only occur from high doses.

Side effects from extremely high doses of Resveratrol (two-five grams per day) have led to episodes of light and mild diarrhoea, nausea, and hypersensitivity.

The evidence shows that adverse reactions in doses of less than 1,000 mg per day are scarce.