Multiple sources of evidence demonstrate the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer,
cardio-protective and neuro-protective benefits of the naturally occurring compound Resveratrol. Resveratrol is a 'phytoalexin', which is a polyphenol produced by plants in response to environmental stress. A phytoalexin is an antimicrobial produced at sites of toxic pathogen infection in plants. It has been found in at least 72 plant species.
Common Resveratrol Foods:
Mulberries
Lingonberries
Cranberries
Red currants
Bilberries
Blueberries
Pomegranates
Peanuts
Pistachios
Rhubarb
Fresh grapes (especially in skin and seeds)
Red grape juice & Red Wine
Cacao
How does Resveratrol influence the immune system?
It has been reported that Resveratrol can modulate immune function and establish immune tolerance, depending on dose. At low doses Resveratrol stimulates the immune system, whereas at high doses it induces immunosuppression. It's effect as an immunomodulator has been demonstrated in different animal models and in both adaptive and innate immune cells.
To support immune disorders, it is increasingly recommended as a dietary supplement. However, Resveratrol undergoes rapid metabolism in the body and has low bioavailability orally. Also at high doses, some mild toxic effects such as headache may occur. Research continues on how to improve bioavailability from a nutraceutical perspective and clinical studies are ongoing for the perfect dose.
In scientific speak, some modulatory actions of Resveratrol on immune cells and Autoimmunity include:
Inhibits T cell activation (often dysregulated and over-active in Autoimmunity).
Decreases B cell proliferation and auto-antibody production in Autoimmunity.
Suppresses production of inflammatory cytokines (eg IL6, TNF-alpha, IL-1Beta, IL4).
Reduces TH17 cells and IL-17 cytokines (both are excessive in Autoimmunity, causing tissue destruction).
Increases T-Regulatory cells required for Immune tolerance in Autoimmunity.
Reduces TGF-beta production (a cytokine that can have an inflammatory effect if produced in excessive amounts).
Increases production of IL-10, the regulatory cytokine
Decreases COX-2 expression and NF-kB activation (inflammation cell signalling pathways)
Regulates the expression of TLR4 (Toll like receptor that plays a fundamental role in pathogen recognition and activation of innate immunity).
Inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation (immune complexes of the innate immune system and often implied in chronic inflammation and Autoimmune diseases).
Exerts antioxidant properties and reduces oxidative stress.
Activates Nrf2 signalling pathway (anti-inflammatory signalling pathway found in cells).
Affects Natural Killer cells (dose dependant), which help fight infections.
Inactivates STAT3 (a cell transcription factor that is linked to Autoimmunity).
Regulates SIRT 1 (intracellular regulatory proteins that maintain T cell tolerance).
Evidence of antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects have been seen in the following Autoimmune diseases: psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, IBD, Type 1 Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus.
Incorporating Resveratrol foods into your daily diet has many proven health benefits. If supplementing or using higher doses for immune disorders such as Autoimmunity, it is important to consider working with a health professional.
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