Resveratrol May Increase Blood Flow to Brain

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound found in, among other things, grape skins and red wine. It is also a supplement that has been in the news quite frequently over the last few years.

Recent studies have tied resveratrol to longer lifespan, enhanced athletic performance, reduced risk of colorectal and prostate cancer, and reduced inflammation.

A new randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study on humans has found that oral resveratrol supplementation may increase blood flow to the brain.

The study involved randomly giving each of the 22 adults selected for the study one of three treatments: a placebo; 250mg trans-resveratrol; or 500mg trans-resveratrol. Due to the crossover design, each of the participants was give each of the treatments at different times after a washout period. The participant's cerebral blood flow levels and cognitive performance were tested for 36 minutes, starting 45 minutes after each administration of the three treatments.

The researchers found that the resveratrol increased blood flow to the brain in a dose-dependent manner. However, there was no significant difference in cognitive ability. It is not typical to see improved cognitive ability from short-term increases in cerebral blood flow. The resveratrol also increased levels of deoxyhemoglobin, an indication of increase oxygen extraction and utilization.

The researchers concluded, "these results showed that single doses of orally administered resveratrol can modulate cerebral blood flow" in humans. Given the nature of this study (high dose, single administration), it is impossible to know what effects long-term use may have on the brain and other organs.

This news comes directly on the heals of a study that found that low dose resveratrol may protect the brain during a stroke.

Learn more about this exciting antioxidant including additional recent research on resveratrol.

1. Kennedy, D. O., E. L. Wightman, et al. (2010). "Effects of resveratrol on cerebral blood flow variables and cognitive performance in humans: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover investigation." Am J Clin Nutr.