Atherosclerosis, often called “hardening of the arteries” is an accumulation of  “junk” in the arteries, which become blocked and inhibit the flow of blood. The cause of atherosclerotic plaque build up is a complicated process, involving the retention of oxidized LDL cholesterol and other fibrous materials. Inflammation is a major player in the build up of plaque. Resveratrol can help relieve plaque and inhibit its formation by several different means:

Vasodilation and Artery Elasticity

Resveratrol stimulates the production of substances in the body, such as nitric oxide (NO), which make the arteries more elastic. The more flexible the arteries, the more they can withstand differences in blood pressure and even decrease blood pressure.

Oxidative Stress

Resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant, helps reduce oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which makes it less sticky and prone to developing into plaque.  Resveratrol also stimulates the body’s production of glutathione, a critical free-radical scavenger, which inhibits oxidation.

Anti-inflammatory activity

Inflammation is a major player in the buildup of plaque. The anti-inflammatory properties of resveratrol help it to reduce plaque development and keep the arteries flowing.

Suppression of Platelet Aggregation

One of the key players in atherosclerosis is the platelet, a blood cell that is important for clotting. Platelets adhere to injured arterial cells. The accumulate and can cause serious blockage. Resveratrol inhibits the buildup of platelets on the arterial walls.

With all this taken into account, it is probably a good idea to supplement your diet with a good source of resveratrol.

Fan et al. 2008. Beneficial Effects of Resveratrol on Atherosclerosis. J. Med. Food 11 (4).2008. 610-614.

We all probably know that the Mediterranean Diet, one of the healthiest around,  is rich in olive oil, fresh vegetables and red wine. But what does that mean for those of us, who are trying to live with this healthy meal plan? Here is the “standard” Mediterranean diet, adapted from Trichopoulou et al 2009.

Table 2 | Daily intakes (g/day and oz/day) of indicated dietary variables by sex. Values are median

* mostly olive oil

** mostly wine, taken with the meal

Trichopoulou A, et al. Anatomy of health effects of Mediterranean diet: Greek EPIC prospective cohort study. BMJ. 2009 Jun 23;338:b2337.

Most scientists agree that the components of red wine are significant players in the health aspects of the Mediterranean Diet. HerbaSway has concentrated the most important of them and developed the new, delicious Red Wine Alternative. Try it 2 - 3 times a day for best results.