Resveratrol—The “Chateau Hormone” for Cardio Diabetic Protection

Abstract

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring phenolic compound abundantly found in grape skin and in wines. Resveratrol is a phytoalexin trans-3,5,4’-trihydroxystilbene that possesses diverse biochemical and physiological actions. It is effective in improving health and preventing or treating chronicdiseases. The cardiovascular protective effects of Resveratrol suggest the anti-atherogenic and anti-inflammatory activity of the compound on endothelial cells. Resveratrol attenuates myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury, atherosclerosis and reduces ventricular arrhythmias. Resveratrol has been widely studied and is shown to have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic effects and many signalling pathways are among the molecular targets of Resveratrol. Based on these mechanistic considerations, the involvement of Resveratrol has been observed in cardiovascular diseases, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In type 2 diabetes patients, when Resveratrol was given along with anti-diabetic agents, it was found to lower blood glucose, HbA1C and increase the insulin sensitivity and the levels of HDL-C. Resveratrol acts on the SIRT1 gene and stimulates endogenous pathways to promote health and longevity.