What are the Different Resveratrol Side Effects?

Resveratrol, the antioxidant supplement that many believe may have anti-aging and disease prevention benefits is a drug, no matter how naturally it is derived. There are known resveratrol side effects including strong stomach upset, feelings of nervousness, pins and needles sensations, a revved up feeling when the medication is first taken, continued nervousness or panic, and joint pain. In addition to these side effects, the components in resveratrol may have adverse effects when taken with certain other medications, or they may prove a health risk to others.

Stomach upset is probably the most common of the resveratrol side effects and the one most reported. Frequently, people suffer from diarrhea, while others report stomach cramping. Some manufacturers of the supplement suggest that stomach problems occur mostly when people take inferior versions of this grape skin derivative. That claim is not entirely proven, and those with a tendency toward developing stomach upset may want to carefully consider its use.

Joint pain is another of the resveratrol side effects that can be cause for concern. Although less common than side effects like diarrhea, it can still lead people to have to rely on other medications, like pain relievers. This side effect should give pause to those with conditions like arthritis.

A number of resveratrol side effects concern mood. Some people feel like they’ve consumed too much caffeine when they use this supplement and others have a feeling of nervousness at all times. Similarly, people can be bothered by pins and needles sensation on the arms and legs. Those with mood disorders, panic disorders or nerve dysfunction, should check with their doctors about this supplement’s benefits and risks.

Additionally, resveratrol can affect blood thinning, and people on any type of blood thinner or platelet reducer should not take this extract. Other medications may be affected by this drug. It is especially important that people who have had any type of cancer that is influenced by hormones, such as ovarian cancer, avoid resveratrol. The supplement acts similarly to hormones like estrogen and may increase cancer risk for some people.

It’s important to note that side effects don’t occur with everyone and there are people who experience no resveratrol side effects. The trouble occurs when a drug gains celebrity status and seems to offer the promise of things like a longer or healthier life. It then logically seems like a good idea to take it, and it’s handily available at many different types of stores. Its availability and status can trick people into believing in its complete safety, although as a supplement, it lacks the scrutiny that prescription drugs undergo. Ultimately, people should do their research before reaching for a miracle cure, and if they are taking any other medications or have ongoing medical conditions, a doctor’s advice should be sought before new supplements are tried.