Resveratrol and Stomach Health

Scientists and researchers all over are excited about resveratrol’s possible ability to promote good stomach health and even treat many stomach diseases. Resveratrol is believed to act as a natural anti-bacterial agent against the Helicobacter pylori bacterium(H. pylori).  This is the bacteria that is commonly found in the human intestinal tract and is responsible for most cases of gastritis (stomach inflammation).  Gastritis also weakens the protective coating of the stomach and allows highly acidic digestive juices to irritate the sensitive stomach lining. H.  pylori is also the leading cause of stomach ulcers, often leading to bleeding or a blowout of the stomach wall known as perforation.  In addition the H. pylori bacteria has been closely linked to many cases of gastric cancer.

Antibiotic therapy has proven to be effective at providing initial relief from H. pylori, however resistance can develop over time and relapse can occur.  For this reason science has turned to some natural plant extracts for their anti-H pylori abilities such as garlic, broccoli, cranberries, green tea and most recently resveratrol.

A recent in vitro study done by researchers at Clemson University put resveratrol’s anti-bacterial abilities against the H. pylori bacteria to test.  Following a 24 hour treatment results showed that resveratrol (particularly in the muscadine grape seed) had by far the highest anti-H. pylori effect.  The results of this study are very promising in the area of intestinal health however future studies are necessary to help clarify resveratrol’s role in preventing diseases associated with the H. pylori bacteria.