Resveratrol for brain health

Don't peel your grapes!

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• What are phytonutrients
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Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant which is why we examine it here more closely as part of Enzo's brain health management. We recently discovered its benefits during the grape harvest when I noticed that Enzo enjoyed eating a few bunches of grapes a day.

Resveratrol is a compound produced by many plants as part of their natural defense mechanism. Yes, even plants have to protect their cells against free radical damage from UV radiation, pollution and environmental toxins. These same qualities, which are found in a glass of red wine, have been identified as making it possible for the French to maintain good standards of health while consuming a diet relatively high in saturated fats from butter and cheese for expample. This phenomenon has become known as the 'French Paradox'.

	Making wine in Italy

When grapes are made into wine, especially red wine, the skins are present during the fermentation process. This is when resveratrol is released. Red wine also contains flavonoids and both compounds have significant antioxidant properties.

Does red wine contain large amounts of resveratrol? The jury is still considering how much is enough when applied to brain health, or whether red wine is of any benefit to your health. Socioeconomic and lifestyle choices may play a significant role in this determination since studies suggest that people who have higher incomes are more likely to drink wine.  They are also more likely to eat fresh fruit and vegetables and take regular exercise. 

We suggest some advise from yester-year: ..."a little of what you fancy does you good"! However, if Enzo want's to consume 5 bunches of grapes a day ... so be it.

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Resveratrol content of wines