Are There Any Resveratrol Side Effects?
90Unless you have been living in a cave for the last year you have probably heard about the hot new longevity supplement called resveratrol. This compound is found in the skins of red grapes, and its most notable natural source is red wine. Unlike many other flash and the pan "Fountains of Youth" the benefits of this super supplement are viewed as legitimate by many of the top researchers and medical experts. Successful studies have been conducted on a wide range of lower level life forms, and human research is starting to show real promise, even if it is still in the very early stages.
It seems that resveratrol has the ability to activate genes that help to turn back the clock of aging. That makes this compound a very effective weapon against all sorts of age related diseases. One pharmaceutical company is developing a synthetic resveratrol drug and plans to market it as an anti-diabetes measure. Studies also suggest that it could be an effective way to prevent and fight cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and heart disease. Users of resveratrol supplements also report an increase of energy, endurance, and athletic performance. Many endurance athletes, such as cyclists and marathon runners, use this to improve their results.
Hearing all these benefits really gets most people very excited, and
with good reason. If this compound can really do all of these things it
could dramatically change the world. However, those who are currently
supplementing this substance have reported a number of side effects.
Some of them come from the dosage taken, while others will vary because
of the user's unique physiology. We will discuss some of these negative
side effects here, to help you decide for yourself if it is right for
you.
Note: we will be referring to side effects as
negative reactions and experiences to this supplement. There are many
positive "side effects" and for a list of those check out this article
on resveratrol benefits.
Diarrhea
This is one of the main side effects that have been reported. However, the problem usually only comes from taking high doses of a low quality (50% extract) supplement. This is because such products often contain high levels of emodin. This can cause stomach cramps and diarrhea in those who have sensitive stomachs. A high quality resveratrol supplement should not cause this problem, as it will contain only small amounts of emodin.
Achilles Tendinitis and Joint Pain
Some people report joint pain in the hips, feet, hands, and back. The second most reported side effect was the development of Achilles tendinitis. It is thought to be caused by the chelation of copper (which is needed to form collagen) caused by taking extremely high dosages. Most users have found that when they lowered their dosages these side effects went away. This has led people to believe that its cause by taking an amount of resveratrol in excess of what you need.
Insomnia and Anxiety
Some users have reported a feeling of anxiety similar to the jitters caused by caffeine. The same feeling lead to bouts of insomnia, often coming and going quickly and at random times. In most cases this went away after a week or two of usage. It is not known what caused this side effect, and it might just be caused by another ingredient in a low quality product. As with diarrhea, those taking a 98% extract have not often reported feeling this way.
Reactions with Prescription Medicines
If you are on a regimen that includes prescription medications you MUST consult your doctor before beginning resveratrol supplementation. It can act as the blood thinning agent which could cause serious problems if you are already taking a drug to thin your blood. Resveratrol may also have unpredictable reactions when taken at the same time as other prescription medicines, similar to those caused by drinking grapefruit juice.
Are these Resveratrol Side Effects Worth it?
That is for you to decide on your own, as well as with the consultation of your physician. It is your body and you need to decide what you do and do not put in it. The benefits and side effects listed in this article come from anecdotal evidence collected from user reports. It should not be mistaken for scientific evidence or for medical advice.
That being said, there are many people out there reporting great things about their use of resveratrol. People take prescription medicines every day to solve their health problems, knowing there can be potential side effects. Just listening to one of the hundreds of television commercials will often make it seem like the side effects might be worse than the problem they are trying to solve. People continue to use these because the benefit outweighs the small chance of these potential negative reactions.
Is having more stamina and endurance, while potentially continuing to live an incredibly active lifestyle late into life worth the possible side effects of resveratrol? As I said earlier, that is only for you to decide. Do your homework and make an informed decision.
The side effects tend to occur when taking a low quality supplement at extremely high dosage. To avoid this it is best to buy resveratrol supplements that are of high quality and 98% or 99% pure. If you ever notice any negative reactions to any supplement you take (not just resveratrol) you should cut down on your dose to see if it goes away. If the problem still persists discontinue use all together.
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Hi Jeremy, I ran across this hub while looking for something else and could not resist. I also appreciate you listing the side effects as I just started taking Resveratrol a few weeks ago. I also just published a hub about a diet that (done correctly) is supposed to mimic the Resveratrol by activating the Sirti1 gene. Thanks for the info!
Thanks DmR! Resveratrol is great but as with anything else you put into your body it will cause a reaction. Some will be good benefits and some will be side effects. Saying these effects are "Living longer! Fights Cancer! Increases Endurance!" just shows that they are obviously trying to sell you something. People should be able to find all the facts before they make a decision on taking a supplement.
Wow, nice that somebody is taking a realistic look at resveratrol.
It's very hard to find un-biased advice on the web because every site you come across is actually trying to sell you the stuff.
Good one!
It's good to have this information available. This product has become so popular that hardly any information on any possible side effects are mentioned on the web. As a consumer you need to learn as much as possible in order to make a smart decision. Yes, free trials are available for many of these products, but the cost are not really affordable for most people.
thnaks for the info
Thank u for great article, been reading all the goodness of resveratrol not knowing whats the side effect.. really need to do more reseach before consuming.
The main side effect of resveratrol as I see it is that occasionally you end up getting drunk.
Great article and great information. Thanks.
Good article. The old adage still stands...if it sounds too good to be true....it is.
Any product or person, for that matter, that sounds too miraculous leaves me a little cautious.
Hey Jeremy,
Great informative Hub! I recently wrote a Hub called Will You live Beyond 100which mentions Resveratrol among other breakthroughs if you want to check it out!
Here's To Health Wealth and Happiness!
I tried Resveratro Ultra taking a total of 250 mg, at 2 pills daily. On the third day, I could already tell a difference. It increased my energy level significantly. Also, I would wake up clear headed, not groggy. I had energy to burn. It regulated my digestive system, didn't see a weight loss, but could tell my clothes were fitting better. Unfortunately, it intefered with my blood pressure medication, and I had increased blood pressure. I stopped taking it on day six. Had no other bad side effects. Going to consult with my doctor this month and see what he says, because I wish I could continue to take it. Maybe in a lower dosage.
I would LOVE to try this supplement- but I have IBS and also can not drink red wine as it gives me SEVERE migraines?? Is this still a possiblity for me?
I would love to hear any comments or opinions on this- or if you have similar health issues?
Thanks so much!
This is good information. Thanks for tell us!
Everything has side effects. Take one thing to solve one problem and it just gives you other problems. It's problem displacement!
I must have been living in a cave because I haven't heard of this supplement. Thanks for bringing me out of the dark! :)
@misa + bewareo miracles: I generally agree with you, but resveratrol is one of the few supplements that is seemingly standing up to the hype. Different people will have different results, some of which are unwanted. However, most of these seem to be coming from people taking low quality products. No supplement is going to work perfectly for everyone, but it seems as if a lot of people are getting great mileage from this one.
@Renee: I think your best bet is to talk to your doctor about taking it. You most likely would not be able to handle a low quality product, and even a high quality one might not agree with your IBS. I have not had problems with resveratrol and diarrhea, or know much about IBS, so I could not say for sure.
I think things are any side effects, but with varying degrees of side effects.
Nice message board! first one that i came accross that didn't sounds like they are endorsing a perticular brand! awesome!
I have been taking this and can tell you have had severe bouts of dizziness to the point of having to lie perfectly still with my hands covering my eyes.
Thanks for the info on the side effects. It is something to consider before taking it.
anyone take it while pregnant
I think taking any type of supplement not recommended by your doctor while pregnant would have serious risks. I would talk with your doctor and see which supplements would be safe to take.
severe dizziness
I am taking it now and My eyes burn and I feel very bloated. Other than that is is fine. Too early to see any benefits.
I took a 150 mg. Max Resveratrol each day for five days. I certainly didn't feel any of the benefits mentioned, but then I'm in very good health anyway. What I did experience after a few days, was a continuous mild headache and muscle pain. In fact, I felt quite dreadful. It could have been coincidental, but I am very wary of trying these pills again.
I would wake up clear headed, not groggy. I had energy to burn. It regulated my digestive system, didn't see a weight loss, but could tell my clothes were fitting better. Unfortunately, it intefered with my blood pressure medication, and I had increased blood pressure. I stopped taking it on day six.
I feell the benefit of resvetratol pill
Always great to see both the pros and cons of a products. Great research.
caused me headaches
I started taking it about a week ago. Today I experienced numb and tingling in the extremities all day. I also had several hours of anxiety. Until today I would have recommended it, which still maybe right for some. I did have alot more energy than normal while taking it.
What you take really does make a difference. Quality is key.
Time magazine has done a secondary report in this months issue about living longer. A side not about this supplement mentioned it's alleged benefits, but with a note that long term side effects haven't been studied.
I guess the key here is to talk to your physician before starting any regiment of supplements. I know I am curious about this supplement after I read about it in a popular fitness magazine. I am active and try to live a healthy lifestyle, but I'm leery about the unintended joint pain. I have enough joint problems as it is in my late 20's and I would rather not take a chance.
Which are good brands selling this product?
Which is the best brand/name to use of the resveratrol? There are so many......
Just started taking 3 days ago. Have experienced a flush feeling seemingly at random times, along with some anxiety.No major benefits yet.
I have been getting some pretty heavy headaches. I am taking Jarrow Resveratrol 100.
I also noticed for the first time today that it stinks to high heaven! Wretched smell. Have others noticed this smell? I think I am going to back off from it. I have been walking around all week feeling like I have a constant hangover. That MUST be hard on the liver. I am also not wanting to take it now that I have read about the potential of causing breast cancer. It is like what they have found with soy. It prevents cancer, AND it can cause cancer. God. I think we are just supposed to stick with food, personally. Too bad our soils are so depleted, right?
I've not heard that this product might cause breast cancer...can someone please give me a website with this information.
I stopped taking Resv. for six months, then started again last week...I had the capsules and didn't want to throw them away! Anyway..big mistake, I feel nauseous, and my blood pressure has jumped again, so I'm throwing the rest of them away.
I started taking this a few weeks ago - today I'm going to discontinue. I suffered from migraines in the past - but hadn't had one in months - suddenly I'm getting them again!! I've actually had a severe headache / borderline migraine almost since the day I started them. Not sure if this was the trigger, I thought maybe they would subside...but no deal. Still getting them!! Ugh!! It's not worth the pain!!! Anywone else getting bad headaches from this stuff???
I took this for few days and I stopped ... It contained strong amount of caffeine which triggers my headache and dizziness ..
I have been taking this for a number of weeks now and because of the great benefits reported for it I was reluctant to discontinue it. Having woken up this morning with another dreadful migraine I've finally thrown in the towel! Most days on it I've had a headache, but at least twice a week I've had a migraine. I do suffer with migraine, but not that often these days ..... Until the Resveratrol. I've also had anxiety, jittery feeling, lack of appetite and hot flushes.
I've been taking the Jarrow one.
I have been taking resveratrol for over a year and I think it works. I am 57 and have always taken very good care of myself exercise and weight wise. On the positive side I noticed joint pain going away, I started getting acne again (initially), my skin tightened up, and my hair stopped turning grey. I was seriously "carded" (I was wearing sun glasses) 5 days after my 57th birthday and I am playing very competitive sand volleyball against people 1/2 my age. I did have the "D" side effect that was mentioned. I was taking some French Organic 100mg a day resveratrol and that was definitely causing "D" issues. I switched to "Natures ..." (can't remember the name) 60mg time release Acai Resveratrol and have had no problems since. Some of what I read says you don't need high doses, 50 mg a day or less is fine. I think it works. Play with your dosages and don't be afraid to go down mg if you have side effects.
I had a bad headache for a month and was waking up with them (which is rare for me). Finally stopped taking resveratrol and didn't have a headache. Tried one again and woke up with one. This supplement isn't for me!
Interesting information. are you able to post a list of references used for this article? many thanks.
Interesting information. are you able to post a list of references used for this article? many thanks.
Resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a phytoalexin produced naturally by several plants when under attack by pathogens such as bacteria or fungi.
Resveratrol is currently a topic of numerous animal and human studies into its effects. The effects of resveratrol on the lifespan of many model organisms remain controversial, with uncertain effects in fruit flies, nematode worms,[1] and short-lived fish. In mouse and rat experiments, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, blood-sugar-lowering and other beneficial cardiovascular effects of resveratrol have been reported. Most of these results have yet to be replicated in humans.
In the only positive human trial, extremely high doses (3–5 g) of resveratrol in a proprietary formulation have been necessary to significantly lower blood sugar.[2] Despite mainstream press alleging resveratrol's anti-aging effects, there is little present scientific basis for the application of these claims to mammals (see Life-Extension section below).
Resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and is a constituent of red wine, but apparently not in sufficient[citation needed] amounts to explain the French Paradox. Resveratrol has also been produced by chemical synthesis or by biotechnological synthesis (metabolic engineered microorganisms) and is sold as a nutritional supplement derived primarily from Japanese knotweed.
This is such an awesome hub. Very contemporary and indeed breath- taking. I am so privileged to read this hub because I am duly informed and educated. Hoping to read more of such hubs from you. Cheers!
D.Virtual.Doctor
It is nice to see someone put a little perspective on this "miracle drug". I think the side effects we are seeing now are only the beginning. Good hub! I've linked to it in one of my own.
It's me again. I don't know why, but the link within my own hub didn't get saved. It is up now, sorry!
Also, one reason why people get variable side effects with this is because it interacts with prescription drugs. It inhibits molecules called cytochrome p450s, which influence the way many prescription drugs are metabolized.
pls try sisel resveratrol in liquid form(ETERNITY). it works. website www.mysisel.com/nickleah my email: dpd_ph@yahoo.com check the labels of eternity and you find a lot of benifits contain added.. thanks
RESVERSATROL HAS HELPED ME TO BE MORE ACTIVE AND ALERT. I ALSO FEEL 3 YEARS YOUNGER [I.E. AGE 67] AND MORE RELAXED THAN I WAS AT 70. MY WIFE (68 YEARS OF AGE) HAS ADDED 3/4 HOURS OF GYMNASTICS TO HER 3/5 HOURS OF MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING PER WEEK AND SHE IS EVEN HAPPIER.
WE BOTH HAD VERY SIGNIFICANT FLUFFING AND PUFFING FOR THE FIRST FEW MONTHS, HOWEVER, THE STOOLS WERE BETTER FORMED AND EVACUATION WAS WITHOUT STRAINING.
OVER THE FIRST THREE OR FOUR MONTHS WE TOOK OUR INTAKE UP FROM 200 MG PER DAY EACH TO 250 MG TO 300 MG. THIS LAST DOSE WAS OBVIOUSLY WAY TOO HIGH AND WE BOTH FELT SOMETHING LIKE A HEAVY FLUSH AROUND THE CHEST WHEN WE EXERCISED WITH OUR RESTING HEART RATE GOING FROM 50 TO 65+ PULSES AND A VERY HIGH LEVEL OF FEAR AND FAINTNESS.
AFTER CUTTING OUR INTAKE TO NIL ON WEEKENDS AND 140 MG PER DAY FOR THE REMAINING DAYS WE SEEMED TO BE CLOSE TO THE DOSE BUT THE FLUSH AROUND THE CHEST, SOMETIMES EXTENDING TO THE UPPER ARMS STILL COMES BACK IN A MILD FORM. THIS HAPPENED 30 MINUTES AGO JUST AS WE LAY DOWN TO SLEEP WHICH IS WHY I CAME DOWNSTAIRS AND WROTE THIS TO YOU.
IF YOU DECIDE TO TRY RESVERATROL BE CAREFUL AND CONTROLLED AND LISTEN TO THE WISDOM OF YOU OWN BODY.
I took this nitro 250 mix with tween, for 3 months, and now have joint pain in knee's, back neck, and stiffness in legs when getting up from sitting or lying down. My suggestion dont take this crap.
I have had bouts of dizziness, one really severe, so I've stopped taking it.
Thanks for all the info. This really helped me. I was getting ready to buy this stuff online when I read this article and all of the comments. I suffer from high blood pressure and this may have caused a problem for me. There aren't many articles that list the side effects of this stuff. So thanks to all who contributed and saved me another health problem. I'll talk to my doctor before trying something new from now on.
This is great information you have given to people who have taken resveratrol. I just ordered LifeCell, but I only asked for the cream, and they also sent the capsules.
I will not take them. I will regularly watch/read the comments. Great information
Been taking it for several years now (since the Harvard Study published) with no side effects. Out of the blue, took a dose and had bad nausea and diarrhea, tried fresh batch, same result, tried different manufacturer, same result followed by a full day headache!!! I think I'm done with them ....
I've had continuous, mild headaches since starting 200 mg. of the Source Naturals resveratrol 2 weeks ago.
Doing my Research.... 2 years ago
Have to say, this is the first artical that I have read that seems to list "actual' adverse side affects. I have to give it to the author, it gives food for thought.
Good one!