A groundbreaking review suggests that resveratrol, a natural compound found in the skin of grapes, blueberries, and raspberries, may enhance female fertility by improving both the quantity and quality of egg cells.
The study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, highlights resveratrol’s well-documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), in collaboration with teams from Italy, South Korea, and Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation Trust, conducted a systematic review of existing research to assess its impact on female reproductive health.
Analyzing data from 24 in vitro and in vivo studies, involving a total of 9,563 human participants, the researchers found evidence that resveratrol can enhance oocyte (egg cell) quality and quantity. Two studies specifically examining oocyte quality reported improvements among women who took resveratrol, while four studies investigating egg cell quantity showed mixed results—two indicating an increase and two reporting no significant change.
The proposed mechanism behind these benefits lies in resveratrol’s ability to reduce oxidative stress, protect mitochondrial DNA, and activate telomerase, thereby slowing cellular aging. Additionally, resveratrol stimulates sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a molecule known to decline in aged oocytes, which may extend ovarian lifespan and improve reproductive potential.
Beyond its role in egg cell health, the review also suggests that resveratrol may help manage infertility linked to conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and obesity. Researchers believe its ability to modulate androgen production, lower inflammation, and combat oxidative stress contributes to these potential benefits.
“This systematic review provides a comprehensive analysis of resveratrol’s impact on female fertility and underscores its potential to improve reproductive outcomes,” said Professor Lee Smith, senior author and Public Health expert at ARU. “It could pave the way for novel, less invasive fertility treatments using natural compounds.”
Resveratrol is generally regarded as safe when consumed in moderate amounts through diet or supplements, with doses up to five grams per day for a month deemed tolerable. However, the long-term effects of higher doses remain unknown.
Findings on resveratrol’s impact on pregnancy rates were inconclusive. Among five studies reviewed, two showed an increase in pregnancy rates, two found no significant difference, and one reported a decrease. While the results are promising, researchers emphasize the need for more extensive clinical trials to determine optimal dosages and assess potential side effects.
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