Resveratrol as a Longevity Supplement

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol found in the skin of grapes, blueberries, and other plants. It gained fame for being the compound in red wine potentially linked to the "French paradox." It is studied in longevity for its ability to activate sirtuins, particularly SIRT1. Sirtuins are a class of proteins that act as key regulators of cellular health, responding to nutrient scarcity and stress. By activating SIRT1, resveratrol can mimic some of the effects of caloric restriction, leading to improved mitochondrial function, reduced inflammation, and better metabolic health. While the bioavailability of resveratrol from supplements has been a subject of debate, micronized formulations and co-supplementation with other compounds are thought to enhance its effects, making it a popular, though debated, tool in the anti-aging toolkit.