Resveratrol and grape juice share a special, yet common connection in that resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound found in grapes. While many choose to access the antioxidant benefits of resveratrol via dietary supplements, it is also naturally accessible through consuming grapes, particularly red grapes. Resveratrol and grape juice are often touted to increase life span, as resveratrol stunts the growth of cancerous cells and has been proven to lengthen the lifespan of animals and certain insects during clinical studies.
Scientists continue to vigorously study the effects of resveratrol and grape juice as red grape skins, in particular, appear to have a very high resveratrol concentration. While the substance is also found in red wine and pomegranates, grape juice is often better tolerated by individual users who may not be able to consume alcohol or who may not appreciate the taste of pomegranates. How much resveratrol is present in grape juice depends largely on the specific type of grape cultivated, as well as a crop’s overall health. For instance, grapes that have been exposed to a fungal infection are less likely to contain a high resveratrol concentration.
In studying resveratrol and grape juice, research clearly indicates that purple and red grape juice varieties possess the highest resveratrol concentrations. In wines, red wine has the highest concentration. Other sources, such as white grape juice, rose wines or white wines are likely to contain less potent amounts of resveratrol, overall.
Some of the conditions likely to be positively impacted by resveratrol and grape juice include edema, chronic venous insufficiency, high blood pressure and diabetes. There is some evidence that resveratrol may also stifle cancer cell growth. While the connection between cancer, resveratrol and grape juice appears to be promising, experts warn that people with ovarian cancer, breast cancer, uterine cancer and estrogen-sensitive cancers, in general, avoid taking resveratrol supplements, although consuming moderate amounts of grape juice is not believed to be harmful.
The connection between resveratrol and grape juice ties the two together as a natural source of protection from cellular aging and disease. Deemed to be relatively safe for human consumption, resveratrol and grape juice are also not commonly associated with any negative side effects, when garnered from natural sources. Further testing is needed, however, to determine if using resveratrol supplements may be accompanied by adverse effects, particularly when supplements are taken with other prescription medications.
