Authors:
- Sara Bezak – Student, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
Article type:
Review
Abstract:
Resveratrol is a stilbenoid that belongs to the group of polyphenols. Although it is traditionally used in Eastern medicine, in the Western part of the world its health benefits were first described as part of the “French Paradox” and it has been the subject of intensive research due to its numerous potential benefits to human health. Resveratrol, according to available research, has a potentially positive effect on preserving cardiovascular health, anti-cancer and antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal effects and neuroprotective effects. Although the results of clinical studies conducted on humans regarding the protective effects and side effects of resveratrol are contradictory, there is a lot of room for further research, primarily in terms of determining the dose that would have a positive biological effect for humans. Resveratrol could play a role in the prevention and treatment of a wide range of chronic diseases, with strong evidence already existing for its antioxidant effect and reduction of fatty deposits in blood vessels. Therefore, a more extensive, standardized clinical research is necessary to identify the potential benefits and side effects of this promising nutraceutical.
Keywords:
resveratrol, nutraceutical, antioxidant, French paradox, cardiovascular health