Modern Fountain of Youth? Resveratrol and Other Anti-Aging Supplements

The "fountain of youth" was once thought to be an actual fountain or body of fresh water located in either what is today called Florida, or in South America. Of course, mariners in the 1500's never did find the fabled fountain of youth, but modern science may have something close to it -- anti-aging supplements. In addition, research is being done to find the "longevity gene" -- in coming decades, it may be possible to "zap" these gene into being with advanced gene therapy. But for now, pill-form supplements are all that is available to the vast majority of us.

Resveratrol, and its most potent form, trans-resveratrol, have been getting a lot of attention in the US media lately -- it all started with a CBS 60 Minutes segment back in January 2009. You see, resveratrol (sometimes written as "reservatrol" or "reseveratrol", although both are incorrect spellings) is the active chemical in red wine believed to be responsible for a number of health benefits -- healthier liver function, better skin, and a general slowing of the body's aging process.

In fact, scientists now believe that resveratrol activates the body's anti-aging enzymes. With standardized resveratrol extract pills now available over the counter at national chains such as GNC and Vitamin Shoppe, and with prices starting at just $19.99 retail for 60 pills, this could be the beginning of an anti-aging revolution.

You see, a single pill contains approximately the same amount of active resveratrol as would be found in forty-two bottles of red wine! So, clearly, this provides a large quantity of anti-aging supplement without any of the potentially negative side effects of consuming an alcoholic beverage.

In addition, supplement marketers claim that resveratrol is an excellent source of anti-oxidants as well. Could this be a miracle drug? Well, possibly, but I tend to doubt that any one pill is the "key" to good health. I do believe, however, that resveratrol can improve your skin and energy level -- I have been taking it for several weeks at the suggested dose and have noticed a rise in stamina and better, more vibrant skin. It will take longer, perhaps years, for me to see if the anti-aging properties extend life.

In mice, resveratrol added significant (over 30 percent) time to the subject's lifespan. A 30 percent longer life is a pretty extraordinary accomplishment, if you think about it. Mice given resveratrol also seemed to suffer less complications from high cholesterol diets.

Although unsubstantiated, I have heard that wealthy Romans in ancient times would eat many grapes at once when they feared the onset of middle age (grapes are a natural source of resveratrol).

Regardless of the supplement's historical lineage and contemporary promising results in the lab, this article should not be construed as medical advice. Always, and I mean ALWAYS, consult your physician before taking any new medication or supplement. While the Internet is a great resource for getting background information on anti-aging supplements, you should still consult your doctor before taking any new herb, supplement, or medication.

Common sense, really. Here's to living to 150 or 200!