Resveratrol
The “red wine molecule”
- Type
- Polyphenol antioxidant
- Typical amount
- Human studies use a wide range, often from 150 mg up to 500 mg or more per day.
- Best taken
- As directed on the formula label
- Caffeine
- None
- Main source
- It occurs in red wine, grapes, peanuts and berries, though supplements provide far higher concentrations than diet.
- Evidence level
- Moderately studied
Resveratrol is a polyphenol antioxidant produced by plants under stress, found in red grape skins, berries and Japanese knotweed (a common supplement source).
What is Resveratrol?
Resveratrol is a polyphenol antioxidant produced by plants under stress, found in red grape skins, berries and Japanese knotweed (a common supplement source).
How Resveratrol works in the body
It is studied for activating sirtuins and supporting metabolic and cardiovascular health, with effects sometimes compared to those of calorie restriction. In practical terms, this is the mechanism weight-loss formulas are counting on when they include resveratrol.
What the research says about Resveratrol and weight
Resveratrol has a moderate body of research — some human trials plus supporting lab and animal work. The findings are promising but not definitive, and effect sizes are usually modest. Treat it as a reasonable supporting ingredient rather than a proven stand-alone solution.
How much Resveratrol to take
Human studies use a wide range, often from 150 mg up to 500 mg or more per day. Always check the label of your specific formula — blends often contain less resveratrol than studies use, especially inside proprietary blends that don’t disclose exact amounts.
Food sources and supplement forms
It occurs in red wine, grapes, peanuts and berries, though supplements provide far higher concentrations than diet.
Why Resveratrol appears in weight-loss formulas
It is added to metabolic formulas for its antioxidant and longevity-linked research and its synergy with other polyphenols.
Safety, side effects and interactions
Resveratrol is generally well tolerated; high doses may cause digestive upset and it can mildly affect blood clotting and certain medications. As with any supplement, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or managing a health condition, check with your doctor first.
How to choose a quality Resveratrol supplement
When choosing a Resveratrol product or a formula containing it, look for one that discloses the actual amount of resveratrol (not just a proprietary-blend total), uses a recognizable form, and is made by a brand with third-party testing or GMP manufacturing. More isn’t always better — match the dose to what research and the label suggest, and be wary of products that hide quantities behind a blend.
The “red wine molecule”
Resveratrol is the compound behind headlines about red wine and longevity, though supplements deliver doses no realistic amount of wine could match.
Common questions about Resveratrol
What does Resveratrol do for weight loss?
How much Resveratrol should I take?
Is Resveratrol safe?
How strong is the evidence for Resveratrol?
Will Resveratrol alone make me lose weight?
Does the dose in supplements match research?
Supplements with Resveratrol
Formulas in the SourceLean directory that list Resveratrol or a closely related form among their ingredients:
Related ingredients
Explore other compounds commonly found in weight-loss formulas:
Ingredient insights, explained
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