Piceatannol1 is a metabolite of the powerful phytochemical resveratrol, which is a polyphenolic compound found in grape skins, bilberries, blueberries, cranberries and peanuts. Resveratrol has been studied for its effects on longevity, heart disease and cancer by its in-vitro ability to increase vasodilation and reduce platelet aggregation, oxidation and pro-inflammatory enzyme activity. The compound has increased the lifespan of yeast, worms and fruit flies.
Animal studies have been promising for the inhibition of some lines of cancer cell growth. Animal studies on heart disease have been mixed with high doses showing both benefit and harm.2 However, two of the worlds five documented zones of extreme longevity consume dark red wine that is very high in polyphenolic compounds including resveratrol. Once ingested, some resveratrol is converted to piceatannol.
Recently, researchers at Purdue University discovered that piceatannol blocks the development of immature fat cells into mature fat cells (a process called adipogenesis) by binding to their insulin receptors.3-4 Without insulin, the genes that promote the growth of baby fat cells (which cannot store fat) to adult fat cells (which can store fat) are never activated.
More research is needed and we won't be seeing any products anytime soon, but the beauty and simplicity of the process made it worth writing about. Needless to say, the implications for such a supplement are beyond huge. In the meantime, it's another reason to suggest your patients toss some red grapes and blueberries in their smoothies and protein shakes.
References
When sports chiropractors first appeared at the Olympic Games in the 1980s, it was alongside individual athletes who had experienced the benefits of chiropractic care in their training and recovery processes at home. Fast forward to Paris 2024, where chiropractic care was available in the polyclinic for all athletes, and the attitude has now evolved to recognize that “every athlete deserves access to sports chiropractic."
It is estimated that 61% of patients with CTS avoid taking surgical options due to postoperative complications and costly surgical procedures. Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive and effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, addressing the condition from multiple angles. Recent studies also have unveiled a game-changing adjunct to chiropractic treatments for CTS: nerve flossing.
Some doctors thrive in a personality-based clinic and have a loyal following no matter what services or equipment they offer, but for most chiropractic offices who are trying to grow and expand, new equipment purchases help us stay relevant and continue to service our client base in the best, most up-to-date manner possible. So, regarding equipment purchasing: should you lease, get a bank loan, or pay cash?
