Resveratrol as a Supplemental Therapeutic in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Syndromes: A Critical Review

Metabolic syndrome places patients at high risk to many other health problems, as their bodies are in a perpetual state pro-inflammation and pro-thrombosis. In many cases, a regulated diet and increased exercise is sufficient in rectifying their condition, however for many patients, drug intervention is necessary. In recent years, calorie restriction has been shown to improve the health of patients afflicted with aging-related diseases, specifically those associated with metabolic syndrome, and researchers are now exploring drugs that mimic calorie restriction. Resveratrol mimics a calorie restricted diet as it has been shown to attenuate health benefits, including anti-platelet aggregation, vasorelaxation, atherosclerosis suppression, and lipid metabolism similar to a calorie restricted diet. Additionally, it modulates many of the pathways associated with metabolic syndrome, leading researchers to believe it has potential as a burgeoning therapeutic approach.