Resveratrol is a polyphenol with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  It is naturally found in nuts, berries, and grapes skin but the concentration is low. Studies have been widely publicized for its cardiovascular, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-aging benefits.  Research has also shown significant benefits in several chronic inflammatory disorders.

Resveratrol activates sirtuins, which can increase insulin sensitivity and protect against oxidative damage. Previous research with resveratrol has demonstrated improvements in dysglycemia and insulin sensitivity, however, there has been some inconsistency in results.

According to a new review published Monday in Nutrients, researchers investigated the effects of resveratrol in patients with type 1 diabetes. In this autoimmune disorder, there is a lack of insulin to regular glucose levels. Type 1 diabetes is becoming an increasing epidemic along with the many other autoimmune diseases. It is important to note that insulin treatment may not always result in the appropriate targeted glucose levels. In addition, insulin alone may not be sufficient to avoid disease related complications.

This study included thirteen patients with type 1 diabetes ranging from 12 to 45 years of age. Each patient received 500 mg or resveratrol twice daily over a two-month period. Clinical and laboratory assessment included body weight, body mass index (BMI), fasting glucose, insulin, hemoglobin A1c, insulin, HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, alkaline phosphatase, liver enzymes, creatinine, and albumin. In addition, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid peroxidation levels were also assessed. These were all taken at baseline, 30 days, and 60 days.

As a result, resveratrol supplementation significantly decreased fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c levels. In addition, malondialdehyde, an oxidative stress marker, was also decreased. Total antioxidant capacity increased demonstrating antioxidant protective properties. Insulin, HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, CRP, and liver and kidney function were not affected.

These results support resveratrol supplementation as a potential strategy for improving glucose control and insulin sensitivity and oxidative damage in patients with type 1 diabetes. Other nutrients that should be considered to address dysglycemia include inositol, tocotrienols, fish oil, probiotics, and resistant starch.

Since type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder, one must also investigate into the potential environmental triggers that can contribute to autoimmunity such as, food sensitivities, toxins, nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalance, and infections. In addition, stool testing is essential to rule of bacterial infections and dysbiosis as well as assess inflammatory, immune, digestion, and absorption markers. Consider vitamin D, fish oil, curcumin, resveratrol, and probiotics to support autoimmune dysfunction.

By Michael Jurgelewicz, DC, DACBN, DCBCN, CNS

Source: Movahed A, Raj P, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Resveratrol in Type 1 Diabetes Patients: A Two-Month Preliminary Exploratory Trial. Nutrients. 2020 January 6; 12(1).

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