The “elixir of life” was found in the red wine from Greek scientists. It is proven that the resveratrol protects the heart and it seems that it has anti-carcinogenic effect. The scientists claim that in bigger doses, it can prolong life.

“We started the research in 1992, when the case with the “French paradox” came up. Back then, experts from all around the world raised the question of how it is possible to have low percentage of heart diseases among people from Southern France when their diet consists of high percentage of fat. Then, together with Dr. Levteris Diamandis we found out that the substance in the red wine “trans resveratrol”,” says for “Ta Nea” newspaper Dr. Georgios Soleas – biochemist specializing in wine producing, who works in Canada.

Dr. Sleas’ team found out that this substance stops the destruction of DNA, widens the arteries and lowers the cholesterol percentages. “The research shows that is protects from the development of malignant cancer germinations as well as from metal oxidizing in our bodies.”

Together with Dr. Soleas, scientists from all over the world studied how much resveratrol wines sold in the super-markets have. “The most quantity was found in Pinot Noir and in Greek wines – the dark and sour one (xinomavro) and in the wine from Mount Athos (agorgitiko). This does not mean that the rest Greek wines have less of this substance. The differences in substance are noticeable between the Greek and French wines,” notes Dr. Soleas.

Dr. Tom Maniatis from Harvard University, who is a scientific counselor in one of the most advanced pharmaceutical companies for research “Sirtris,” says: “We are talking about one very promising substance, which could change the future pharmaceuticals.” According to the research, the resveratrol “charges” the gene, which slows down death.

One of the proofs that the research is going in the right direction is the fact that not long ago Glaxo Smith Kline bought the right for distributing the future resveratrol pill for $750 million.

“When it comes to the resveratrol pill, I’m a little bit reserved because more researches need to be done regarding its side effects. Until the pill comes out on the market, I’m suggesting for you to drink two-three glasses of red wine daily for the men and one for the women, because they have a lower alcohol barrier. Of course, you should combine the wine with healthy food,” says Dr. Soleas.

Meanwhile, experts advise consumers to avoid different kinds of resveratrol pills, which are offered online.