Mechanisms of Metabolic Regulation of Resveratrol on Humans With Metabolic Syndrome

Sirtuin activators may prove useful in treating age-related diseases and extending lifespan in humans. Resveratrol (RSV), a polyphenol found in red wine, has been shown in vitro to enhance SIRT1 activity. RSV is associated with some of the beneficial effects of red wine or the "French Paradox". Recently RSV has been associated with increasing lifespan in mice on a high calorie diet and improved metabolic profile and activity levels. The effect of this small molecule in humans is unknown. Preclinical observations suggest that RSV is safe and has enormous potential in the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance in humans. This pilot study will examine the effect of RSV on improving the metabolic profile of adults with insulin resistance. Specifically, this randomized double blind placebo controlled study will examine the effects of 4 weeks of supplementation with RSV 5.0 grams daily, compared to placebo control (PC) on the metabolic profile of 36 men and women over the age of 50 with insulin resistance (IR) consuming a typical western diet consisting of at least 40% calories from fat.