Red Wine Agent Changes Metabolism

A red wine ingredient may protect people at risk of heart disease and diabetes by changing their metabolism, according to research. In the first study of its kind, scientists analyzed the biological effects of resveratrol supplements in 11 obese men. They found that after just 30 days the men experienced a lower metabolic rate, less liver fat, lower blood sugar levels and reduced blood pressure. The changes mirrored those of severe calorie restriction, which has been shown in animals to make cells operate more efficiently. Cutting calories by up to 50% is known to reduce the risk of age-related diseases such as diabetes and cancer and promote longer life span. The new suggests resveratrol, taken in a concentrated form, can help to prevent metabolic syndrome. The men, who were obese but otherwise healthy, were given a dietary supplement containing 150 milligrams of purified resveratrol every day for a month. Cell Metabolism, Oct. 2011