Scientists say the presence of resveratrol in these food items has a positive effect on the brain, heart and lifespan.
The most naturally abundant sources of resveratrol are plants, including the skin of red grapes, red wine, raw cocoa, and dark berries, like lingonberries and blueberries.
Older cells started to divide
A team led by Professor Lorna Harries at the University of Exeter discovered that by treating worn-out human cells with a formulation of resveratrol the older cells started to divide.
These older cells then developed longer telomeres – the protective tips on the ends of chromosomes which shorten as we age, according to Longevity Facts.
It seemed a miracle that these old cells looked young again. The experiment was repeated several times and each time the result was rejuvenated cells.
According to scientists red wine, dark chocolate and some berries also help to reduce inflammation and strengthen the heart.
Help prevent some age-related diseases
This powerful antioxidant was also found to help ward off certain age-related diseases.
Certain metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease, tend to occur as we age. In animal studies, severely restricting calories can help prevent some of these diseases.
Researchers found that resveratrol can mimic calorie restriction in some ways and found it to extend the lifespans of yeast, worms, flies and fish.
To help avoid the excessive consumption of red wine, this antioxidant can also be found in dark chocolate, grapes, raspberries, plums, blueberries, cranberries, grape tomatoes, and pomegranate.
These findings are fascinating and are a step to prolonging people’s life without affecting overall health.
Please share with all your friends and family so they know dark chocolate can finally be consumed guilt free!