Scientist may be one step closer to discovering the fountain of youth, and the key may be resveratrol. In an interview 1 on March 23, 2009, Dr. Mehmet Oz speaks of the ability of a person to live a longer healthier life. The body’s adaptive response to insufficient calories may be to extend the life of the individual in an effort to extend the survival of the species. A decrease in calories may mean an inability to reproduce and in response the body extends the longevity of the affected individual. Cutting back as little as 15% of the calories ingested (ie decreasing from 2000 calories to 1700) may be enough to trigger this response. The idea is to cut back on empty calories that provide little or no nutrients. Opting out of sodas, donuts, and sugary snacks can make this cut back a reality. In addition to the above, Dr. Oz brings to light the possibility of tissue regeneration, organ rebuilding, and new artery development. All of these medical advances will permit the healthy extension of one’s life.
The Hidden Jewel Derived From Plants
Dr. Oz mentions that ingestion of resveratrol has many benefits. It is present in red wine, but in very low amounts so ingestion via a supplement is considered ideal. It is produced naturally by plants in response to stress and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer,and positive effects on the cardiovascular system. To this point, the chemical looks promising, but no long term definitive studies have been carried out on humans. Researchers are finding that the human body can absorb it, especially if it is introduced via the lining of the mouth. This method of delivery allows for less of the chemical needed versus a higher dose necessary when it is delivered in pill form. The chemical is derived from various roots and plants. It is common to get the product from Japanese knotweed but soared in popularity when it was found in the skin of grapes. This finding is what transferred the idea that the benefits of the chemical may be derived from drinking wine. While it is true that the chemical exists in the fruit, it does so in small quantities and varies greatly from grape to grape depending on its growing conditions and growing location. Recently, extracts from the mulberry fruit are being sold as containing the promising chemical. Though still being examined, it is thought that this plant-made antibiotic produces a similar response that the body experiences when it is working in a calorie restricted mode. No studies have shown the ingestion is deleterious, but more research in humans is necessary to definitively prove its efficacy.