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The “French Paradox” is the observation that the French suffer very low instances of heart disease and cancers compared to the typical American, despite a diet high in saturated fats. It has been suggested that France’s high red wine consumption is a primary factor in this effect and it is believed that one of the ingredients in red wine potentially related to this effect is resveratrol, compounds used by the grape as a defensive arsenal. We find resveratrol in other plants as well, though the compounds present in the grape seem to be the most potent.
Resveratrol is known as the immune defense of the vine. It allows the vine to live for several centuries and protects it from environmental hazards. It seems to have the same effect on cells, with some interesting side benefits that may be the breakthrough to a youthful body and youthful skin.
Resveratrol is being heralded as the “Best Anti-aging molecule” by such impressive facilities as Harvard’s Department of Medicine, and has been used not only internally to ward off aging, but also in topical skin care products designed by CAUDALIE, the French Grapevine-based skin care company. Utilizing collaboration with The University of Pharmacy in Bordeaux, CAUDALIE began to study this precious (it takes one ton of grape stalks to obtain 50 grams of pure resveratrol), active ingredient in 1997. In 1999, CAUDALIE patented the extraction and stabilization of grapevine resveratrol (Patent No. W09903816). Soon after, dedicated CAUDALIE clients began to experience the benefits of its natural anti-aging properties on their skin.
A new report indicates that resveratrol activates the production of sirtuins; proteins of longevity that surround cells. When sirtuins diminish with age, the cells die more quickly. By increasing the level of these proteins, resveratrol thus increases the lifespan of the cell by upwards of 160%.
While this incredible protective mechanism is building, resveratrol also does something interesting to the density of the epidermis; it doubles its thickness. Skin becomes stronger, more resilient and smoother. It is also noted in clinical studies that resveratrol increases the production of collagen and elastin, crucial to have the look and feel of younger skin. In time, wrinkles are smoothed from the inside and facial contours are redefined. In addition, resveratrol is considered a polyphenol, having the power to stop free radical damage coming from pollution, UV rays and other oxidative stress.
Impressive results, considering this molecule is naturally created by the grape to defend itself from the environment.
Resveratrol is the key ingredient in the following products:
