Researchers searching for substances that boost the human immune system say resveratrol “popped right out” during a new analysis of more 400 compounds.
Resveratol from red grapes had a significant impact on a gene involved in immune function. The only substance to perform as well was one from blueberries. Both compounds worked synergistically with vitamin D to raise the expression of the gene.
Resveratrol and the blueberry compound (pterostilbene) are stilbenoids, which plants produce in order to fight infections. Their bioavailability in humans remains a question, according to the researchers.