Nutrition of soybeans

This post discusses the relationship between soy isoflavones and breast cancer. Soybeans are very nutritious. They are generally consumed as steamed edamame, tofu, soy milk, miso soup and tempeh. They provide all nine essential amino acids that human needs. Therefore, they are important source of protein for vegans and vegetarians. They are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin Bs and minerals. They also have higher levels of isoflavones than other legumes. The isoflavones found in soy are genistein, daidzein and glycitein. These isoflavones share similar chemical structure with estrogen, the female sex hormone in animals. They are called phytoestrogens (plant estrogen-like compound).

Soy isoflavones and breast cancer

Isoflavones are antioxidants, they can protect cells from oxidative damage especially with respect of DNA. Therefore, they can guard cells from developing into cancer cells. Furthermore, they have antiangiogenic (inhibiting formation of blood vessels) and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties will inhibit formation and growth of breast cancer.

The similarity in chemical structure with estrogen suggests that isoflavones may interact with estrogen receptors and imitate the action of estrogen. This raises the concern that soy consumption may lead to higher risk of breast cancer. However, studies showed that soy isoflavones decrease estrogen production and reduce growth of breast cancer cells. Clinical studies showed that there is an inversed correlation between soy product consumption and breast cancer death rate. In other words, higher consumption of soy products leads lower breast cancer death rate in women before and after menopause.

Reference

Boutas I, Kontogeorgi A, Dimitrakakis C, Kalantaridou SN. Soy Isoflavones and Breast Cancer Risk: A Meta-analysis. In Vivo. 36:556-562, 2022.

What are the benefits of melatonin supplement to covid-19 patients?

What is melatonin?

This post describes the recent research on melatonin and covid-19. Melatonin is a hormone primarily released by the pineal gland at night. It regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It is present in food, such as milk, nuts, tart cherries, fatty fish, Goji berries, oats, mushrooms, corn and bananas. Melatonin supplement on the market is synthetic, and people use for insomnia, jet lag or shift work. Level of melatonin declines in old folks, and melatonin supplement may help them sleep better.

Melatonin and covid-19

The virus that causes covid-19 is SARS-cov-2. For more information, please read earlier post. Covid-19 is often lethal to patients of old age or with underlining health issues. However, the lethal condition is not due to the action of the virus, but due to the free radicals generated by the over-reacted immune system of the host (cytokine storm). Free radicals damage multiple vital organs of the host leading to organ failure and death. Therefore, agents that can mitigate these free radicals will improve the outcome of covid-19 infection.

Like resveratrol, melatonin can significantly reduce the mortality of severe covid-19 patients. It works via multiple pathways. It has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immuno-regulatory activities. Melatonin is readily available from drug stores without prescription. It could relieve some of the symptoms of covid-19, and could protect vital organs from being damaged by cytokine storm. The results of studies using cell cultures and animal models look promising. However, results of clinical studies are limited. Because melatonin is not a patentable drug, drug companies are less likely to fund large scale clinical trials.

Anti-viral properties of melatonin

Melatonin binds to ACE2, and hence blocks SARS-cov-2 from entering into the cells. Furthermore, it upregulates antiviral genes that fight against virus. On the other hand, it inhibits viral protease (Mpro), an enzyme that is responsible for processing of viral replicase. Replicase is an enzyme required for viral replication and transcription. Therefore, melatonin will help reduce the viral load after one is infected.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of melatonin

Melatonin and its metabolite are potent antioxidants that can scavenge free radicals. In addition, it also stimulates activity or production of several antioxidant enzymes. This indirectly enhances antioxidant capacity of the cells. Furthermore, it suppresses the activity or production of several pro-inflammatory enzymes. Together, these properties of melatonin will help protect cells from being damaged by overwhelming inflammatory reactions induced by cytokine storm during SARS-cov-2 infection.

Immuno-regulatory properties of melatonin

Melatonin down-regulates the over-reaction of innate immune response to SARS-cov-2 infection. This will help prevent the development of cytokine storm.

Clinical evidence

A number of small scale of clinical trials have been done using melatonin at 10 – 75 mg/day in addition to standard therapy on patients with severe covid-19. In all cases, the death rate of melatonin-treated group is significantly lower than that of the control group. In a recent randomized, double-blind study, a 2-week treatment of 3 mg melatonin for three times a day combined with standard care could relieve symptoms of patients with mild to moderate covid-19. This demonstrates that melatonin is indeed helpful to shorten the recovery time of covid-19 patients.

Conclusion

Studies show that melatonin is beneficial to covid-19 patients. Melatonin works by suppressing viral replication and by reducing the damage of vital organs by free radicals generated by over-reaction of the immune system. It is relatively nontoxic and readily available without prescription. It should improve the outcome of covid-19 infection. However, it should not be used as prophylaxis for covid-19 infection or as a substitute for vaccination.

References

1. Tan DX, Reiter RJ. Mechanisms and clinical evidence to support melatonin’s use in severe COVID-19 patients to lower mortality. Life Sci. 294:120368, 2022.
2. Farnoosh G, Akbariqomi M, Badri T, Bagheri M, Izadi M, Saeedi-Boroujeni A, Rezaie E, Ghaleh HEG, Aghamollaei H, Fasihi-Ramandi M, Hassanpour K, Alishiri G. Efficacy of a Low Dose of Melatonin as an Adjunctive Therapy in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: A Randomized, Double-blind Clinical Trial. Arch Med Res. 53:79-85, 2022.
3. Cardinali DP, Brown GM, Pandi-Perumal SR. Can Melatonin Be a Potential “Silver Bullet” in Treating COVID-19 Patients? Diseases. 8:44, 2020.

What are the health benefits of resveratrol to prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer

This post is to reveal the health benefits of resveratrol on prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in men at old age. The incidence of prostate cancer increases exponentially for men over 65 years of age. Fortunately, the progression of most prostate cancer is very slow. Men often die of old age before the cancer can kill them. This allows the use of natural products to control cancer growth, instead of more aggressive approaches such as chemotherapy. Resveratrol is one of a few natural products with minimal adverse effects.

Most prostate cancers originate from epithelial cells of the prostate. However, the stromal cells also play an important role in cancer initiation, growth and metastasis (spreading to other body parts, such as bone) by secreting growth factors and proteolytic enzymes. The growth factors protect the tumor cells from apoptosis (programmed cell death). The proteolytic enzymes facilitate the metastasis of cancer cells and their invasion to other body parts.

Health benefits of resveratrol

Consumption of resveratrol-rich food reduces the incidence of prostate cancer. Studies using cultured cells and animal models showed that resveratrol possesses strong anti-cancer properties. It inhibits prostate cancer development through different mechanisms. On one hand, it inhibits prostate cancer growth by suppressing the androgen receptor signal pathway. It modulates expression of androgen-receptor-regulated genes by enhancing degradation of androgen receptor as well as its synthesis. On the other hand, it interrupts communication between stromal and epithelial cells. It can inhibit cancer cell migration by blocking secretion of specific growth factors from stromal cells. It also suppresses metastasis of prostate cancer cells to the bone by targeting the extracellular matrix. Dietary resveratrol lowers the incidence of prostate cancer in transgenic mice.

Many problems need to be solved before resveratrol can be used for prevention and treatment of prostate cancer. One problem is to determine the right dose. Resveratrol can behave as both pro- and anti-oxidant depending on concentration. At low concentration, resveratrol serves as pro-oxidant that favor cancer cell survival. However, at high concentration it stimulates superoxide production leading cancer cell death.

Other problems with resveratrol are poor water solubility, low chemical stability and short biological half-life. Using nanoparticle formulation, the anti-cancer properties of resveratrol are greatly enhanced. Nanoparticles protect resveratrol against degradation, increase its delivery to the cancer cells, and improve its bioavailability. However, these results have not yet been confirmed with clinical trials. Limited clinical trial showed no effect of resveratrol on testosterone and PSA levels or prostate volume.

References

1. Silk N, Reich J, Sinha R, Chawla S, Geary K, Zhang D. The Effects of Resveratrol on Prostate Cancer through Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment. J Xenobiot. 11:16-32, 2021.
2. Annaji M, Poudel I, Boddu SHS, Arnold RD, Tiwari AK, Babu RJ. Resveratrol-loaded nanomedicines for cancer applications. Cancer Rep (Hoboken). 4:e1353, 2021.
3. De Amicis F, Chimento A, Montalto FI, Casaburi I, Sirianni R, Pezzi V. Steroid Receptor Signallings as Targets for Resveratrol Actions in Breast and Prostate Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 20:1087, 2019.
4. Kjaer TN, Ornstrup MJ, Poulsen MM, Jørgensen JO, Hougaard DM, Cohen AS, Neghabat S, Richelsen B, Pedersen SB. Resveratrol reduces the levels of circulating androgen precursors but has no effect on, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, PSA levels or prostate volume. A 4-month randomised trial in middle-aged men. Prostate. 75:1255-63, 2015.

What are the health benefits of antioxidant supplements to diabetes mellitus?

What is diabetes mellitus?

This post summarizes recent research on antioxidants and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a disease in which the beta-cells of the pancreas do not produce enough insulin or the body does not respond to insulin as it should (insulin resistance). When one eats a meal, the carbohydrates are broken down into glucose. This raises the glucose level in blood. The body responds to high blood glucose level by secreting insulin from the pancreas. Insulin facilitates the entry of glucose into fat, liver and muscle cells for storage. The blood glucose level returns to normal range. In patients with diabetes mellitus, the blood glucose level remains high. High blood glucose level can cause damage in kidneys, nerve and eyes, and can increase risk of heart disease and stroke.

There are three main types of diabetes mellitus, type 1, type 2 and gestational. Type 1 diabetes is an insulin-dependent condition caused by autoimmune attack on ones pancreas, usually at an early age. Type 2 diabetes is an adult onset condition and oxidative stress plays an important role in its development. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy.

Antioxidants and diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is the result of a progressive loss of beta-cell mass and function. Beta-cells are cells of pancreas responsible for the production and secretion of insulin. Although beta-cell dysfunction may be the result of many pathogenic pathways, oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of diabetes mellitus. Chronic hyperglycemia (condition with high blood glucose level) induces free radical production in beta-cells, resulting in oxidative stress of the beta-cells. Oxidative stress reduces insulin production and secretion from beta-cells. It also increases insulin resistance of peripheral tissues, and induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) of beta-cells. If left unchecked, it will eventually lead to diabetes mellitus. Since antioxidants can mitigate the effect of oxidative stress, intake of antioxidants may help slow the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Limited animal and human studies have produced promising results.

Reference

Yaribeygi H, Sathyapalan T, Atkin SL, Sahebkar A. Molecular Mechanisms Linking Oxidative Stress and Diabetes Mellitus. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2020:8609213, 2020.

Health benefits of astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is the red-orange, lipid-soluble carotenoid pigment found in microalgae, krill, salmon, shrimp, crabs and lobster. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Animal studies show that astaxanthin protects beta-cells by reducing blood glucose concentration and preventing high-glucose-induced free radical production. It reduces the levels of inflammation-related proteins. It also improves insulin secretion and reduces insulin resistance. Furthermore, it lowers blood pressure, serum triglyceride and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. On the other hands, it increases HDL (good) cholesterol level. Therefore, with proper diet control and medication, astaxanthin may help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as heart disease, stroke, neuropathy (dysfunction of peripheral nerves), kidney failure and vision loss. For more information on astaxanthin supplement, please go to this page.

References

1. Mashhadi NS, Zakerkish M, Mohammadiasl J, Zarei M, Mohammadshahi M, Haghighizadeh MH. Astaxanthin improves glucose metabolism and reduces blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 27:341-346, 2018.
2. Landon R, Gueguen V, Petite H, Letourneur D, Pavon-Djavid G, Anagnostou F. Impact of Astaxanthin on Diabetes Pathogenesis and Chronic Complications. Mar Drugs. 18:357, 2020.

Health benefits of curcumin

Curcumin is the yellow pigment found in turmeric powder, which is a component of curry. It has antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer properties. It has the potential to prevent a wide variety of inflammatory diseases.  A study shows that a dose of 250 mg/day is able to protect people with prediabetes from becoming diabetes. Furthermore, it reduces lipogenesis in liver and increases activity of lipid mobilization enzymes. Hence, it helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, and increases HDL (good) cholesterol. In another study using a dose of 300 mg/day, it lowers HbA1c, serum level of glucose and insulin resistance. It also decreases vascular inflammation and reduces lipid peroxidation. Therefore, it helps prevent or delay development of cardiovascular diseases in diabetes. For more information on curcumin supplement, please go to this page.

Reference

Pivari F, Mingione A, Brasacchio C, Soldati L. Curcumin and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevention and Treatment. Nutrients. 11: E1837, 2019.

Health benefits of resveratrol

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic antioxidant present in peanuts, red grapes, apples, black olives, berries and red wines. It is a strong scavenger of free radicals and can also induce activities of numerous antioxidant enzymes. Recent studies showed that pre-diabetic conditions can be reversed by proper diet. Resveratrol is able to reduce fasting glucose level, and decrease oxidative damage of beta-cells of the pancreas to improve insulin secretion. It also improves insulin sensitivity to reduce insulin resistance. However, it has no effect on inflammation. Nevertheless, resveratrol supplement seems to be effective in the management of diabetes mellitus. More research need to be done in this area. For more information on resveratrol supplement, please go to this page.

Reference

Hoseini A, Namazi G, Farrokhian A, Reiner Ž, Aghadavod E, Bahmani F, Asemi Z. The effects of resveratrol on metabolic status in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary heart disease. Food Funct. 10:6042-6051, 2019.

What is the result of recent research on antioxidants and cardiovascular diseases?

This post summarizes recent research on antioxidants and cardiovascular diseases. Oxidative stress and inflammation play an important role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. A number of antioxidants have shown to be beneficial to cardiovascular health. Since they exert their protection via different mechanisms, it is possible to take these antioxidants in combination for maximal protection. The health benefits of four antioxidants are discussed below.

Anthocyanins

Anthocyanins are the blue, red, and purple pigments of fruits and vegetables. They have antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-neurodegenerative activities. Berries are rich in anthocyanins, and eating berries is good for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. For those who do not eat berries regularly, supplements made of extracts of various berries, such as Isotonix® Maximum ORAC Formula, can be beneficial.

Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases are hypertension (high blood pressure), elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol level and low HDL (good) cholesterol level. Anthocyanins have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can modulate blood pressure, platelet aggregation and vascular functions. Analyses of data from 17 clinical trials show that anthocyanin intake can reduce triglyceride level, decrease LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol levels. Furthermore, it also reduces levels of inflammatory markers. All these effects lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Reference: Shah K, Shah P. Effect of Anthocyanin Supplementations on Lipid Profile and Inflammatory Markers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Cholesterol. 2018:8450793, 2018.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is the red-orange, lipid-soluble carotenoid pigment found in microalgae, krill, salmon, shrimp, crabs and lobster. Supplements are available for those who do not eat seafood regularly. Astaxanthin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is more potent than vitamin E and beta-carotene.

Astaxanthin provides benefits on cardiovascular health via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to modulate lipid and glucose metabolism. It protects cell membrane by scavenging free radicals. It reduces systolic pressure and delays LDL oxidation. Furthermore, astaxanthin increases erythrocyte flexibility and dilates blood vessels with its antioxidant property, but decreases the number of platelets.

On the other hand, its anti-inflammatory property leads to the increase of reverse cholesterol transport. That is, it increases cholesterol removal through the liver, resulting in the decrease of the number of foam cells. This will decrease the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Together, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties will delay the progression of cardiovascular diseases. Eleven small clinical studies have supported the health benefits of astaxanthin on cardiovascular diseases. For more information on astaxanthin supplement, please go to this page.

References: Pereira CPM, Souza ACR, Vasconcelos AR, Prado PS, Name JJ. Antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory mechanisms of action of astaxanthin in cardiovascular diseases (Review). Int J Mol Med. 47:37–48, 2020.

Oligomer Proanthocyanidin Complexes (OPCs)

Oligomeric Proanthocyanidin Complexes (OPCs) are a class of polyphenols found in fruits, seeds, nuts and bark. OPCs are strong antioxidant, more potent than vitamins C and E. They are extracted from grape seeds and maritime pine bark commercially. Besides antioxidant properties, they also have antibacterial, antiviral, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anticoagulant, and vasodilatory properties.

Small scale clinical studies showed that OPCs were able to reduce systolic blood pressure in individuals with pre-hypertension by relaxing the peripheral blood vessels.  In some but not all studies, they lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels, and inhibit oxidation of LDL. They reduce carotid plaque size and reduce risk of cardiovascular diseases significantly on prolong treatment. Furthermore, OPCs increase collagen cross-linking, so they enhance ligament regeneration and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. They are beneficial to patients with bleeding hemorrhoids. For more information on OPC-3 supplement, please go to this page.

Reference: Odai T, Terauchi M, Kato K, Hirose A, Miyasaka N. Effects of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract on Vascular Endothelial Function in Participants with Prehypertension: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients. 11: E2844, 2019.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic antioxidant present in peanuts, red grapes, apples, black olives, berries and red wines. However, the source of commercial supplement is an Asian plant called Polygonum cuspidatum. Resveratrol is a strong scavenger of free radicals and can also induce activities of numerous antioxidant enzymes. It also has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities.

Research showed that resveratrol has anti-atherosclerosis, anti-hypertension, anti-myocardial ischemia and anti-stroke properties. These properties are the result of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions and its ability to stimulate production of nitric oxide (NO). Hence it may be effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, it can decrease plasma triglyceride and LDL levels, and inhibit LDL oxidation. Moreover, it can also suppress vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and platelet aggregation. These are the key events involved in atherogenesis (plaque formation in arteries). In addition, its ability to increase NO production leads to improved vasodilation and lower systolic blood pressure.

Resveratrol and omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) have synergistic effects on inflammation, together they will be even more effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, results of clinical studies are still controversial, as the doses of resveratrol and duration of treatment varied markedly. For more information on resveratrol supplement, please go to this page.

Reference: Breuss JM, Atanasov AG, Uhrin P. Resveratrol and Its Effects on the Vascular System. Int J Mol Sci. 20:E1523, 2019.

What are the results of recent research on resveratrol and breast cancer?

This post summarizes the results of recent research on resveratrol and breast cancer. Resveratrol is a polyphenolic antioxidant present in peanuts, red grapes, apples, black olives, berries, and red wines. Commercial supplement may be extracted from an Asian plant called Polygonum cuspidatum. Resveratrol is a strong scavenger of free radicals and can also induce activities of numerous antioxidant enzymes. It also has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. Much of the anti-cancer activities were the results of research using cultured cancer cells and laboratory animals. Clinical studies are still very limited.

Anti-cancer activities of resveratrol

Resveratrol exerts anti-cancer activities via multiple mechanisms. Its antioxidant property will protect cells from damage of DNA by free radicals and hence initiation of cancer development. It inhibits cancer growth by arresting cell division and promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death) of cancer cells. Moreover, it suppresses expression of pro-inflammatory factors to downregulate chronic inflammation which favors cancer growth and metastasis.

On the other hand, its inhibitory effects on cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis (growth of blood vessels) will inhibit cancer growth and spreading. It facilitates removal of carcinogen from the body. Furthermore, it also enhances anti-cancer immunity by inducing genes involved in immune response. This has positive effects on controlling growth of several tumor types, including those of skin, breast, prostate, lung, colon, and liver. Therefore, resveratrol is a good agent for cancer prevention and complementary therapy of cancer. However, poor aqueous solubility, rapid modification by conjugation, and weak bioavailability are great drawbacks for resveratrol. Nanotechnology may be able to increase bioavailability and to improve deliver of resveratrol to target cancer cells.

Interactions with cancer drugs

Since radiotherapy and chemotherapy of cancer utilize free radicals to kill cancer cell, antioxidants such as resveratrol will protect normal cells from collateral damage by these treatments. Resveratrol protects vital organs, such as heart, kidney, liver and intestine, from damage by many agents during chemotherapy. On the other hand, it acts as a sensitizer in chemotherapy and radiotherapy of many cancers, thus allowing the use of lower doses of anti-cancer drugs. It also increases efficacy of traditional chemotherapy by reducing drug resistance.

Resveratrol and breast cancer

Since resveratrol is a phytoestrogen (having a similar chemical structure with female sex hormone estrogen), it raises concern that resveratrol may stimulate growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells. However, studies show that resveratrol is able to suppress the initiation, promotion and progression of breast cancer cells. In fact, grape consumption is inversely related to breast cancer. Resveratrol suppresses estrogen production by inhibiting aromatase expression and enzyme activity. In cultured cell studies, it suppresses growth of breast cancer cell lines by regulating a number of biological pathways. In animal studies, it delays tumor development by carcinogens, and reduces tumor growth and metastasis. However, the action of resveratrol on breast cancer cells depends on its concentration. At moderate concentration, resveratrol acts as an agonist. On the other hand, at low concentration, it acts as anti-estrogen. More animal studies are needed before clinical trials can be carried out.

For more information of resveratrol supplement, please go to this page.

References

1. Xiao Q, Zhu W, Feng W, Lee SS, Leung AW, Shen J, Gao L, Xu C. A Review of Resveratrol as a Potent Chemoprotective and Synergistic Agent in Cancer Chemotherapy. Front Pharmacol. 9:1534, 2019.
2. Gianchecchi E, Fierabracci A. Insights on the Effects of Resveratrol and Some of Its Derivatives in Cancer and Autoimmunity: A Molecule with a Dual Activity. Antioxidants (Basel). 9: E91, 2020.
3. Vervandier-Fasseur D,  Latruffe N. The Potential Use of Resveratrol for Cancer Prevention. Molecules 24: 4506, 2019.
4. Berretta M, Bignucolo A, Di Francia R, Comello F, Facchini G, Ceccarelli M, Iaffaioli RV, Quagliariello V, Maurea N. Resveratrol in Cancer Patients: From Bench to Bedside. Int J Mol Sci. 21: 2945, 2020.
5. Ferraz da Costa DC, Pereira Rangel L, Quarti J, Santos RA, Silva JL, Fialho E. Bioactive Compounds and Metabolites from Grapes and Red Wine in Breast Cancer Chemoprevention and Therapy. Molecules 25: 3531, 2020.

What are the results of recent research on resveratrol and covid-19?

Introduction

This post highlights the results of recent research on resveratrol and covid-19. [Updated on 10/26/2022].

After almost three years since the first case was reported, covid-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) remains to be deadly. It is highly contagious and undergoes high mutation rate. Patients of higher age or with pre-existing health conditions (immune deficiency, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, cardiac and respiratory diseases) still have high mortality rate due to septic shock and multi-organ failure. Many will die of respiratory failure due to destruction of lung tissues. Although current Omicron variants are less fatal, the pandemic will not end any time soon. Survivors of mild covid may have lingering symptoms (“long covid”). Besides annual booster vaccination, other measures need to be taken to ensure ones safety.

Viral infection and immune response

Invading viruses induce production of oxygen free radicals (ROS) in infected lung cells, leading to cell death and release of virions. ROS also triggers antiviral immune response involving cytokines (peptides released from white blood cells to activate more white blood cells in the infected tissues). Overly activated immune response will result in overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to cytokine dysregulation (cytokine storm). As a result, the body attacks its own tissues and not just the invading viruses, leading to multi-organ failure. Besides the lungs, other vital organs, such as heart, kidneys, and blood vessels, are also affected. Therefore, antioxidant supplements may be beneficial to covid-19 patients by preventing cytokine storm through mitigation of excessive ROS. For background information of free radicals and health benefits of antioxidants, please go to this page.

Resveratrol is the best antioxidant for covid-19

Among the antioxidant supplements available, resveratrol is the best. Resveratrol is a polyphenolic antioxidant present in peanuts, skin of red grapes, berries and red wines. Commercial supplement may be extracted from an Asian plant called Polygonum cuspidatum. It is a strong scavenger of free radicals and can also induce activities of numerous antioxidant enzymes. In addition, it also has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-coagulating properties. This makes it the best supplement for prevention and treatment of covid-19.

Anti-viral properties of resveratrol

Research using cell culture showed that resveratrol can inhibit infection of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes covid-19. The virus enters the lung cells by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). ACE2 is a cell-surface protein and serves as a receptor for the virus. The spike protein of the virus has high affinity for the ACE2. Recent study shows that resveratrol can disrupt the binding of the viral spike protein and ACE2. Therefore, resveratrol inhibits virus from entering cells. Furthermore, resveratrol inhibits viral replication by suppressing the synthesis of its protein coat, and reduces cell death caused by the virus. Moreover, resveratrol improves autophagy of infected cells, a process that increases clearance of virus. Another study shows that resveratrol significantly increases ACE2 gene expression. This study also shows that upregulation of ACE2 has a protective role against SARS-Cov-2 pathogenesis. Exact mechanism is currently unknown.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of resveratrol

Besides its antiviral activities, resveratrol helps mitigate the excessive oxygen free radicals caused by viral infection. In addition, it activates genes of enzymes that generate endogenous antioxidants to protect cells from oxidative stress. Furthermore, it inhibits production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Together, it calms the cytokine storm and relieves the hyper-inflammation state.

Other beneficial properties of resveratrol

Some mild covid patients develop abnormal blood clotting in arteries and veins after recovery. The blood clotting increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and symptoms associated with “long covid”. Resveratrol can prevent the onset of blood clotting events by inhibiting platelets aggregation and the coagulation cascade. It will be safer than the blood thinning drugs that have side effect of bleeding.

Conclusion

Even resveratrol may not be a silver bullet for covid-19, it will certainly improve the outcome of the covid-19 patients by protecting their lungs and other vital organs. Aging folks tend to be antioxidant-deficient. Resveratrol supplement may be the key for survival. Younger folks can often recover from the infection, but they may suffer long lasting damage of the lungs and other organs (“long covid”). Resveratrol may be beneficial to them as well. Resveratrol is relatively nontoxic, and has many other health benefits. It will be a good supplement to help maintain ones good health.

Although resveratrol is promising, it should not be used a substitute of covid-19 vaccine. Instead, resveratrol supplement serves as an extra layer of protection. Not all brands of resveratrol on the market are equally good as they are claimed to be. High quality resveratrol supplement can be obtained from this website.

References:

1. Horne JR, Vohl MC.Biological plausibility for interactions between dietary fat, resveratrol, ACE2, and SARS-CoV illness severity. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 318:E830-E833, 2020.
2. Wahedi HM, Ahmad S, Abbasi SW. Stilbene-based natural compounds as promising drug candidates against COVID-19. J Biomol Struct Dyn. 12:1-10, 2020. 
3. Yang M, Wei J, Huang T, Lei L, Shen C, Lai J, Yang M, Liu L, Yang Y, Liu G, Liu Y. Resveratrol inhibits the replication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in cultured Vero cells. Phytother Res. 22:10.1002/ptr.6916, 2020
4. Domi E, Hoxha M, Kolovani E, Tricarico D, Zappacosta B. The Importance of Nutraceuticals in COVID-19: What’s the Role of Resveratrol? Molecules 27:2376, 2022.

What are the results of recent research on resveratrol and autoimmune diseases?

This post summarizes recent research on resveratrol and autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are diseases resulted from antibodies generated by one’s immune system against its own tissues. Examples are autoimmune hepatitis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis. In response to invading pathogen, the immune system generates antibodies against invader. However, instead of fighting off the invading pathogens, these antibodies begin to attack one’s own tissues.

Health benefits of resveratrol

There is no cure for autoimmune diseases. The only treatment is to lower the severity of the disease through reducing the immune activity. Resveratrol is able to modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses. It suppresses T and B cell proliferation and antibody production.

Most research so far are done with animal models, but results are promising. However, there are no clinical trial results yet, they need to overcome many hurdles before running clinical trials. The first is the right dosage. Resveratrol can suppress immune response at high dose, but stimulate it at low dose. The second is availability of resveratrol inside the body. Availability of resveratrol is low due to poor absorption through the intestine and rapid metabolization in the liver. Synthesis of analogues that can increase absorption in the intestine and decrease the metabolism by the liver may be the solution. Learn more about resveratrol supplement.

Resveratrol and hidradenitis suppurativa

Although resveratrol supplement may be beneficial to persons with autoimmune diseases, those who have hidradenitis suppurativa should avoid resveratrol supplement. The reason is that they are sensitive to yeast proteins; they need to avoid any food containing yeast. These include bread, pizza, some cakes, wine, beer, vinegar (and some salad dressings), and some canned soups (with yeast extract). Since resveratrol is a product derived from skin of grapes that may contain natural yeast, yeast proteins may be present in resveratrol supplement. Taking resveratrol supplement may worsen the symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa.

Reference:

Gianchecchi E, Fierabracci A. Insights on the Effects of Resveratrol and Some of Its Derivatives in Cancer and Autoimmunity: A Molecule with a Dual Activity. Antioxidants (Basel). 9: E91, 2020.

What are the results of recent research on anthocyanins and Alzheimer’s disease?

This post highlights some of the recent research on anthocyanins and Alzheimer’s disease. Anthocyanins are the blue, red, and purple pigments of fruits and vegetables. They have antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-neurodegenerative activities. Berries are rich in anthocyanins, and they are good for the prevention of age-related diseases, such as neurodegeneration, arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. For those who do not eat berries regularly, supplements made of extracts of various berries, such as Isotonix® Maximum ORAC Formula, can be beneficial. It is available from the website on the sidebar.

Anthocyanins and Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease with the characteristics of amyloid plaques formed by large deposits of beta-amyloid (Abeta) peptides in spaces between nerve cells, and neurofibrillary tangles formed by twisted fibers of tau proteins inside nerve cells. They block communication between nerve cells and cause them to die. The causes of Alzheimer’s disease are still elusive. They are a combination of genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors. Research shows that oxidative stress plays an important role of the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in the brain leads to oxidative stress. The excessive free radicals can enhance Abeta formation, and Abeta in turn can promote production of more free radicals. This vicious cycle will help propel the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, Abeta induces apoptosis (cell death) of brain cells.

There are many types of anthocyanins in berries, and they may protect brain cells under different mechanism. Some can even reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Anthocyanins are able to cross blood-brain barrier and slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by inhibiting Abeta-induced apoptosis of brain cells and by reducing free radicals. These findings look promising.

Reference:

Afzal M, Redha A, AlHasan R. Anthocyanins Potentially Contribute to Defense against Alzheimer’s Disease. Molecules 24: E4255, 2019.

What are the health benefits of astaxanthin on exercise and skin health?

This post highlights some of the health benefits of astaxanthin on exercise and skin health. Astaxanthin is the red-orange, lipid-soluble carotenoid pigment found in microalgae, krill, salmon, shrimp, crabs and lobster. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and is more potent than vitamin E and beta-carotene. It reduces oxidative stress and inflammation that are associated with many age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, cancer and poor vision. Reported below are some new research results on astaxanthin. For information on astaxanthin supplement, please go to this page.

Astaxanthin and exercise metabolism, performance and recovery

Vigorous exercise results in overproduction of free radicals (reactive oxygen and nitrogen species). Excessive production of these free radicals will overwhelm the endogenous antioxidant defense system, leading to oxidative stress, which can damage skeletal muscles. Antioxidant supplements help scavenge free radicals and up-regulate endogenous antioxidant defense system and hence will benefit athletes.

Studies using mouse model show that astaxanthin protects enzyme involved in the transport of long-chain fatty acid from damage by free radicals, and enhances utilization of fat as alternative energy source indirectly. This will attenuate the depletion of muscle glycogen and slow down fatigue, and thus enhances exercise performance. Furthermore, astaxanthin also promotes recovery of skeletal muscles with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, results from studies using human subjects are still lacking. More well-controlled human studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of astaxanthin in athletes.

Reference:

Brown DR, Gough LA, Deb SK, Sparks SA, McNaughton LR. Astaxanthin in Exercise Metabolism, Performance and Recovery: A Review. Front Nutr. 4:76, 2018.

Astaxanthin and skin health

Oxidative metabolism and exposure to the sun (UV light) play important roles in skin aging and dermal damage. Both induce in skin cells production of free radicals that in turn stimulate production of proteolytic enzymes resulted in degradation of structural and functional proteins of the dermal extracellular matrix. This leads to increased skin wrinkle and decreased skin moisture and elasticity. Furthermore, UV radiation also induces pigmentation and damages the DNA of skin cells, leading to development of age spots and skin cancer.

Astaxanthin has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It protects skin cells by scavenging the free radicals and by activating their cellular antioxidant defense system. It suppresses production of inflammatory mediators in skin cells. Moreover, it also enhances immune response and exerts anti-tumor activity. Small scale clinical trials using oral astaxanthin supplement and topical cream have shown that astaxanthin enhances immune responses, reduces secretion of inflammatory mediators, improves skin elasticity and moisture content, and reduces age spot size and wrinkle depth.

Reference:

Davinelli S, Nielsen ME, Scapagnini G. Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. 10: E522, 2018.