Resveratrol
Trans-Resveratrol
A polyphenol found in red grapes and wine that activates SIRT1 longevity pathways. The Baur et al. 2006 Nature study sparked global interest, though poor oral bioavailability (~1%) limits human translation of the compelling animal data.
How Resveratrol Works
Resveratrol activates sirtuins (particularly SIRT1), a family of NAD+-dependent deacetylases that regulate cellular stress responses, DNA repair, and metabolic efficiency — mimicking some benefits of caloric restriction. It also activates AMPK, promoting autophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis. As a polyphenol antioxidant, resveratrol scavenges reactive oxygen species and reduces NF-kB-mediated inflammatory signaling. However, its oral bioavailability is poor due to rapid liver metabolism, which is why many formulations include absorption enhancers.
📊 Evidence by Outcome
Strong mechanistic evidence for SIRT1/AMPK activation. Baur et al. Nature study showed improved survival in obese mice. Translation limited by ~1% oral bioavailability.
12 studies • Consistency: Moderate • Effect: Moderate
Systematic review of 19 human studies: consistently improved flow-mediated dilation, reduced LDL oxidation and inflammatory markers.
19 studies • Consistency: High • Effect: Small
Key Research
Peer-Reviewed Evidence • 2 Citations
Resveratrol improves health and survival of mice on a high-calorie diet
Baur JA et al.•Nature•2006•PMID: 17086191
Key Finding: Landmark study: resveratrol improved survival, motor function, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial biogenesis in obese mice via SIRT1 activation.
View on PubMedCalorie restriction-like effects of 30 days of resveratrol in obese humans
Timmers S et al.•Cell Metab•2011•PMID: 22055504
Key Finding: First human RCT: 150mg/day mimicked caloric restriction effects — improved HOMA-IR and activated AMPK/SIRT1 in obese men.
View on PubMedCitations sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and peer-reviewed journals. Study findings are summarized for accessibility. Always consult the original publication for full methodology and results.
Side Effects & Safety
Interactions & Contraindications
Drug Interactions
- •Anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin) — resveratrol inhibits platelet aggregation, increasing bleeding risk
- •CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 substrates — resveratrol modulates these enzymes, potentially altering drug metabolism
- •Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors — resveratrol has phytoestrogenic properties that may interfere
- •Immunosuppressants — resveratrol modulates immune function
- •NSAIDs — additive antiplatelet effects
Supplement Interactions
- •Quercetin — often combined for synergistic sirtuin activation and absorption enhancement
- •NMN or NR — popular longevity stack targeting NAD+ and sirtuin pathways together
- •Piperine (BioPerine) — dramatically increases resveratrol bioavailability
- •Curcumin — additive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Food & Timing
- •Red wine — contains natural resveratrol; combined intake may exceed intended dose
- •High-fat meals — improve absorption of this fat-soluble polyphenol
Who Should Avoid
- •Hormone-sensitive conditions (breast, ovarian, uterine cancer) due to estrogenic activity
- •Patients on anticoagulation therapy without medical supervision
- •Surgery within 2 weeks (bleeding risk)
- •Pregnancy and breastfeeding — insufficient safety data
📋 Protocol Snapshot
Protocols are for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment protocol.
Cost Guide
AED 100-300/month
Estimated UAE pricing. Costs vary by provider, dosage, and treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Resveratrol activates longevity-related pathways (SIRT1, AMPK) and has extended lifespan in yeast, worms, and mice on high-fat diets. Human evidence for lifespan extension is limited, but benefits for cardiovascular markers, blood sugar regulation, and inflammation are better supported. It is considered a foundational supplement in many longevity protocols.
Most clinical studies use 150-500 mg of trans-resveratrol daily. Higher doses (1,000+ mg) are not necessarily more effective and may cause GI side effects. Look for 'trans-resveratrol' on the label, as this is the bioactive form.
No. A glass of red wine contains only 1-2 mg of resveratrol, far below the 150-500 mg used in studies. You would need to drink hundreds of glasses daily, making supplementation the only practical way to achieve therapeutic doses.
Yes, resveratrol supplements are available in UAE pharmacies and health stores. Trans-resveratrol from Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) is the most common source. Brands like Life Extension, Thorne, and NOW Foods are commonly found.
Where to Get It (UAE)
Related Treatments
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Kamura Scores reflect a combination of research evidence, safety, accessibility, and value — they are not clinical recommendations. Research citations are provided for reference; always consult the original publications for complete study details. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Individual results may vary.