The Journal of Neuroscience reported that resveratrol helps memory and blood sugar; a trial on 23 healthy, but overweight persons between the ages of 50 and 75 is described. They were given 200 mg of resveratrol as a supplement per day for 26 weeks. A control group of 23 subjects were given an identically looking placebo for the same length of time. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies of the brain were done and memory tests were performed. Blood tests were also obtained before and after the study.
A the end of the study people who had been given resveratrol daily had better word retention (measured 30 minutes after exposed to a list of words) than the placebo group. The fMRI studies showed better functional connectivity from the hippocampus (important for memory function) to other parts of the brain when compared to the controls.
A marker for long-term blood sugar control, called hemoglobin A1C was reduced and leptin, which is a satiety hormone was increased when compared to the controls. Body fat content in the resveratrol group had decreased while the control group’s body fat had increased.
Resveratrol belongs into the group of polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. This link gives some background information about resveratrol.
Resveratrol may be the substance in French food responsible for longevity in France. It is known to protect cells from free radicals and protects the DNA. It reduces insulin resistance, may help in prevention of cancer and helps lowering blood pressure.
More information about
1. Alzheimer’s disease: https://nethealthbook.com/neurology-neurological-disease/alzheimers-dementia-and-delirium/alzheimers-research/
2. Diabetes and hemoglobin A1C reduction: https://nethealthbook.com/hormones/diabetes/type-2-diabetes/treatment-type-2-diabetes/
Reference: J. Neurosci. 2014, June 4.
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