Resveratrol, known for its presence in red wine, is a natural antioxidant with potent potential benefits. Here’s a look at resveratrol, and the benefits you could get from supplementing with it.What Is Resveratrol?Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant with powerful benefits. Resveratrol is found in various plants, but is by far most concentrated and available in grapes. That’s right, we know what you are thinking: red wine! Yes, men and women can consume resveratrol by drinking red wine, which is best done in absolute moderation, of course. Resveratrol is one of the main reasons that a reasonable amount of red wine on a regular basis is considered healthy However, the benefits of resveratrol are not enough to make up for the cases wherein someone drinks little-to-no wine or alcohol, or avoids grapes.So what is resveratrol, exactly? Resveratrol is a natural compound which is classified as a stilbenoid, which is a type of polyphenol. It is fat-soluble, and easily absorbed by the body. As an antioxidant, resveratrol works to remove harmful molecules from the body.Resveratrol is known to protect blood vessels, and do more as well. The plants which produce resveratrol do so in response to stress, and resveratrol functions as an antibiotic to protect the plant. The unique strength and healthful qualities of resveratrol make it very valuable to human health.The Benefits of a Resveratrol SupplementConcentrated resveratrol in the form of an oral supplement is perhaps the best and healthiest way to take in this healthy natural compound. Consider how the benefits of resveratrol could be worthwhile for you. Lowering blood pressure over time could be accomplished by supplementing with resveratrol. Resveratrol encourages the blood vessels to relax by producing nitric oxide, which has a positive effect by reducing systolic blood pressure. This could make a significant difference for an aging individual with high blood pressure due to the tendency of arteries to stiffen over time. Preventing cardiovascular disease: Resveratrol’s benefits can have the cumulative effect of reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition to reducing high blood pressure, resveratrol reduces cholesterol levels and can prevent blood clotting wherein clotting is not healthy. These benefits reduce damage to the vascular system, which notably reduces the chances of cardiovascular disease.Preventing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: Resveratrol’s ability to reduce inflammation bodes well for preventing dementia and its complications, along with Alzheimer’s disease. This is because resveratrol reduces neuroinflammation, thereby reducing the conditions which lead to dementia and Alzheimer’s. Studies show that taking resveratrol also helps stabilize biomarkers in those who have Alzheimer’s disease.Increasing insulin sensitivity is a benefit that diabetic individuals could accrue from taking resveratrol. It does so by inhibiting the enzymatic reaction which turns glucose into sorbitol. This is beneficial because sorbitol buildup can cause oxidative stress in diabetic individuals. Resveratrol’s general reducing effect on oxidative stress, as well as inflammation, also make it beneficial for diabetic men and women.Easing joint pain might be accomplished with taking a resveratrol supplement. Studies show that resveratrol helps to preserve joint cartilage. This is meaningful because cartilage deterioration is one of the main causes of arthritic joint pain. Resveratrol’s anti-inflammatory properties also reduce arthritic joint pain, making it potentially very effective for this purpose.The compound known as resveratrol is a potent plant-derived substance which reduces inflammation, helps prevent cardiovascular disease, and more. It’s recommended that you talk to your doctor before taking resveratrol, or any dietary supplement.