Resveratrol , a compound found in dark grapes, wine and nuts, can increase bone density in men suffering from metabolic syndrome , according to a new study. It also cites resveratrol as a possible treatment for osteoporosis .
Researchers at the University Hospital in Aarhus, Denmark, explain that the compound stimulates the formation of bone cells in the body.
For the purpose of the study, the data of 66 middle-aged people are considered. All were diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and participated in a double-blind study.
After assessing bone density as well as bone formation and resorption, participants were prescribed 500 mg of resveratrol , 75 mg of resveratrol, or placebo, taken twice daily for 16 weeks.
Such laboratory studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties of resveratrol prevent the loss of bone density .
Participants taking 500 mg of resveratrol twice daily increased lumbar bone mineral density by 2.6% compared with men taking placebo.
The group receiving the highest dose of the compound also increased bone formation by 16%. Metabolic syndrome, which often results in low-grade inflammation causing bone loss, has been linked to the development of osteoporosis .
The researchers explained that high resveratrol intake in just two months led to significant improvements in spine mineral density and increased marker levels of bone formation.
The study data are published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism .