Resveratrol Side Effects:
The Positive and the Negative

Reports of resveratrol side effects have been surfacing over the past few years as more consumers are aware of resveratrol and are trying a variety of supplements.

Resveratrol has been the topic of much research over the past few years. The findings of the studies are now starting to show that there are many encouraging health benefits of resveratrol.

With the increased media attention on resveratrol and consumer demand for resveratrol products greater than ever before, many companies have rushed to get resveratrol supplements into the market place.

The good news for consumers is that there are several reputable companies that provide resveratrol supplementation. Our two favorite resveratrol supplements are Natural Factors Resveratrolrich and Genesis by Symmetry. Unfortunately, however there are some resveratrol products available that contain only trace amounts of the active ingredient. For this reason, it is imperative that you deal only with respectable and highly regarded companies.

As with most products, there are usually side effects. Some of the side effects are considered negative and some of the side effects are considered positive. Sometimes it is dependent on the individual whether they consider specific resveratrol side effects to be positive or negative.

While research on the health benefits of resveratrol has steadily increased over the past several years, there is very little scientific documentation of the side effects. However, there are sufficient anecdotal accounts that it is worthwhile reporting those here.

It is important to remember however that the information is subjective and the people reporting these effects were not part of a controlled study. Therefore it is essential to consider:

• The dosages consumed were not standardized

• The individuals may have consumed more or less than the recommended serving

• The sources of resveratrol may vary significantly which would affect the potency and purity levels

• The individuals may be consuming a variety of other supplements

• The individuals may be on prescription medications that caused a reaction

• The individuals may have had an allergic reaction or contraindication from other ingredients found in the supplements

• The individuals may have one or more medical conditions that caused a reaction or side effect, separate from the supplementation itself

Suppressed Appetite and Increased Calorie Burn

Some users also reported the ability to burn more calories quicker than they had before taking resveratrol supplements and to decrease their body fat levels. Resveratrol has been shown to simulate the fat storing gene which leads to breaking up of fat that is stored in the body. The result is weight loss and a more balanced metabolism.

Caffeine Buzz

Although relatively infrequently, some users have reported being jittery or a buzzed feeling, similar to what is known as caffeine high. This is precisely the result that people consuming energy drinks are looking for. With an estimated 744 million dollars spent annually on energy drinks; a number of people would consider this a positive benefit of resveratrol.

Insomnia, Increased Energy and Mental Clarity

Some users have reported experiencing insomnia. Many others have reported increased energy and mental clarity. This may well be the same side effect, but depending on the individual and the time of consumption, they may report it in two very different ways.

Of the people who did report insomnia, most indicated it may come and go rather quickly and randomly and that it usually dissipates within one to two weeks of usage.

Stomach Cramping and Diarrhea

Stomach cramping possibly accompanied with diarrhea is one of the side effects reported most often. This is most likely due to consuming high doses of poor quality resveratrol supplement that contain emodin. Emodin is known to cause stomach cramps and diarrhea in people who have sensitive stomachs.

Joint Pains and Tendinitis

Although reports of joint pain in the hips, hands and feet are rare, it is thought that this reported pain may start, or increase with higher doses of resveratrol. Dosages in excess of 2 grams are considered to be high. Some people also claim to experience tendinitis pain, mostly in the Achilles tendon and this is also believed to be related to higher doses of resveratrol. Most users have found that these side effects disappeared when they reduced their dosages of resveratrol.

Numbness or Tingling in the Extremities

Only reported to last just a few minutes soon after taking resveratrol supplements, numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, feet and hands was experienced by some. This condition was experienced for only a short while and would subside after just a few days of regular consumption.

Other Negative Resveratrol Side Effects

• Skin patches on the legs

• Cold or flu like symptoms

• Adult acne

• Urine discoloration

• Abnormal blood tests

• Thinning of the blood

• Anxiety

• Headaches

• Reactions with prescription medicines

• Increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures

Other Positive Resveratrol Side Effects

• Improved focus, mental clarity, concentration and better quality sleep

• Improved endurance

• People who have IBS have reported a decrease in the sensitivity of the bowels

• Increased levels of good cholesterol(HDL) and decreased levels of bad cholesterol(LDL)

• Ability to slow the aging process

• Ability to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells

• Ability to fight fungus and bacteria due to the antibiotic properties of resveratrol

Because resveratrol has only been available to consumers for a limited time, there have not been any long-term studies done on humans yet. However, researchers in Denmark will begin a 5-year research project to investigate the long term effects, beginning in June 2011.

Other than the anecdotal reports from users that are documented above, it is unknown what other resveratrol side effects there may be. If you decide that the health benefits of resveratrol outweigh the resveratrol side effects, it is important to purchase your supplements from a highly regarded source such as Resveratrolrich by Natural Factors or Genesis by Symmetry.

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