Resveratrol: The New Weight-Loss Supplement?

What to Know Before You Take It

Here's what to think about before popping a resveratrol pill.

• Take an Rx inventory. Studies suggest that the supplement could increase the risk of bleeding if you're taking blood thinners, anticoagulants, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Resveratrol may also interfere with the body's ability to metabolize various meds, including statins, calcium channel blockers, and immunosuppressants, potentially causing a toxic buildup of medication. Talk to your doc before taking any supplement.
• Check the label. Look for products that contain trans-resveratrol, which is found in nature. Beware of words like complex, formula, and blend, which indicate a mix of ingredients that may include only small amounts of resveratrol.
• Buy tested brands. Biotivia, Longevinex, and Swanson have passed purity and ingredient tests performed by ConsumerLab.com, an independent company that checks supplements.

Resveratrol isn't the only game in town. Here, Mark Moyad, MD, MPH, director of preventive and alternative medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center and FITNESS advisory board member, gives the scoop on more fitness enhancers.

Nutrient: Vitamin D
Promise: More strength and endurance
Get it here: Fortified milk and cereal, egg yolks, salmon, canned tuna, and supplements of 800 to 1,000 IU

Nutrient: Omega-3 fatty acids
Promise: Higher metabolism, faster recovery time, less muscle soreness
Get it here: Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, and daily supplements of 500 to 1,000 mg

Nutrient: Branched chain amino acids, like leucine and valine
Promise: More strength and endurance, less muscle soreness
Get it here: Red meat, chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and daily supplements of 1 to 5 grams

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, February 2010.