As a preventative measure, positive results have been seen in the laboratory. Many opponents of supplementation will say that the preventative benefits are unproven. But, other than proving the affect that it has on laboratory animals exposed to carcinogens, there is no way to prove its anti-cancer activity.

The antioxidant has been of great interest to scientists for several years, now. But, studies are still in the early days. It is not like green tea or other plant extracts that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Many of these plant extracts may help prevent cancer, if people avoid known carcinogens, whenever possible and begin supplementation as early as possible.

Antioxidants act as anti-cancer agents in several ways:

First, they prevent damage to DNA strands that would cause the formation of a cancerous tumor.

Secondly, if a cancerous cell has already formed, they cause a chain reaction that ultimately causes the cell to kill itself, while surrounding healthy cells are undamaged.

Not all antioxidants act in both ways, but resveratrol does.

When it comes to developing a cancer cure resveratrol could prove beneficial. But, it would likely be combined with other strong antioxidants such as rutin, tea catechins, coenzyme Q10, natural vitamin E and C. You may have seen reports on a study that vitamins E and C are not effective against cancer, but that was only one study. Others have shown that the opposite is true. In addition, the researchers used synthetic forms of the vitamins. There has never been any indication that synthetic vitamins work as well as their natural counterparts.

If it is developed as a cancer cure resveratrol will likely be synthesized. Researchers have already learned how to synthesize it in the laboratory and some supplement manufacturers are using the synthetic form. There are many natural sources of the antioxidant, but they cost more. So, in order to keep the price and their costs down, manufacturers usually go with the synthetics.

In addition to its anti-cancer activity, trans-resveratrol is being studied for its anti-diabetic activity. At high dosages, it has been shown to lower blood sugar levels. So, if your blood sugar is normal, be sure that the supplement you take contains no more than 50mg of natural-resveratrol, in a 50% trans-resveratrol formulation.

If you or someone you love is looking for a cancer cure resveratrol is not something to rely on. If you are seeing a traditional medical practitioner, you may want to consult with a doctor of naturopathic medicine. They may be able to make some suggestions that will work well with the treatment you are already receiving. One of the first things they usually look at is diet or nutrient intake.

If you are interested in preventing life threatening diseases of this kind, you will get the most benefit from a multi-nutritional supplement that contains a variety of unique antioxidants and other nutrients that fight the affects of age.