A plant chemical found in grapes and red wine known as resveratrol has become increasingly known for its heart health benefits. Now a new study in the British Journal of Nutrition suggests that resveratrol may also be good for blood sugar regulation.
Increasing research has shown that resveratrol—found in red and purple grapes and in red wine—influences important metabolic pathways in the body and may benefit health
Animal studies have suggested that resveratrol may help regulate blood sugar. This study looked at the effects of resveratrol on blood sugar in people with diabetes. Specifically, 19 men with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to receive 5 mg of resveratrol twice a day or placebo for four weeks.
Glucose regulation was measured through lab tests and results showed that insulin resistance decreased in the resveratrol group, which means their glucose was better regulated.
While the authors caution that the significance of these study findings has yet to be determined, they add that such studies help us gain further understanding about insulin regulation and the role of foods and nutrients such as resveratrol in common conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
Increasing research has shown that resveratrol—found in red and purple grapes and ultimately in red wine—influences important metabolic pathways in the body and may benefit our health. Here are some important tips to consider:
(Brit J Nutr 2011, page 1 of 7 doi:10.1017/S0007114511000316)