Resveratrol does not affect health, longevity in population study

May 16, 2014

Resveratrol, a compound in red wine, grapes, and nuts, has been the focus of many studies for its effects on aging and disease. Researchers have found it to improve the health (and in some cases, longevity) of animals, including mice and nonhuman primates. However, in a study published online byJAMA Internal Medicine on May 12, 2014, researchers report that dietary resveratrol did not provide such effects in a group of community-dwelling, older people in Italy.

Results are based on data collected from 1998 to 2009, as part of the Invecchiare in Chianti Study (“Aging in the Chianti Region”). The team of scientists from America and Italy, including NIA Scientific Director Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, found that resveratrol in the diet was not associated with a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammation, nor was it associated with longevity.

In the paper, researchers note the interest in resveratrol supplementation in the U.S. and elsewhere, and they caution against use of such supplements based on animal data thus far. The paper states there is “limited and conflicting human clinical data demonstrating any metabolic benefits of resveratrol, and there is no data concerning its safety in high doses or for long-term supplementation in older people, who often have multiple comorbidities for which they are taking multiple medications.”

The study authors suggest that more research with a larger group of participants is needed to determine whether resveratrol could have benefits in people, especially those who are overweight with health issues like diabetes.

Reference: Semba, R.D., et al. Resveratrol Levels Unrelated to All-Cause Mortality in Older Community-Dwelling Adults. JAMA Internal Medicine. Published online May 12, 2014. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.1582.