An ingredient in red wine can relieve depression, but drinking is risky

Several studies in recent years have shown links between resveratrol, a phenol found in the skin of grapes, and a decrease in depression, among other potential health benefits. The latest study from this corpus comes from the University of Buffalo, where researchers have identified How Resveratrol influences the experiences of depression and anxiety. The key to this beneficial effect could be the blockage of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4).

Resveratrol and depression

Phosphodiesterase 4 is influenced by corticosterone, a stress hormone that regulates the body's response to various stressors in life. Although beneficial, a person suffering from chronic stress may end up with too much of this hormone circulating in his brain; too much stress often leads to the development of anxiety and depression.

A number of antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications exist but are not effective for about one-third of sufferers. A great deal of research has been devoted to solving the cause of these two common mental disorders, but the development of globally effective treatments, with few side effects, has remained out of reach.

The solution may lie in resveratrol, according to the new study. This compound has been shown to be neuroprotective by inhibiting the expression of PDE4, which increases when corticosterone is too important. PDE4 has been found to induce anxiety and depression-like behavior in mice, as well as lower cyclic adenosine monophosphate in the body and lead in the long run to physical changes in the brain.

Red wine is not the answer

Since resveratrol is found mainly in the skin of grapes, the compound can be found in relatively large amounts in red wine. The study indicates that resveratrol use may help people with chronic stress by inhibiting PDE4, but regular consumption of red wine is not the answer.

Red wine contains alcohol, of course, and alcohol carries risks that can offset the benefits that anyone could derive from resveratrol. In addition to the risk of addiction, especially in depressed and anxious people who are turning to drink for relief, alcohol consumption has been linked to various health risks.

Associated with its potentially negative effects on the liver, pancreas and heart, alcohol has profound effects on the brain and the balance of the chemicals it contains. The frequent consumption of alcohol can aggravate the depression and the anxiety in the people with problems, problems which become much more difficult to solve in case of dependence.

Rather than drinking red wine, individuals can consume resveratrol by eating the grapes from which the red wine is made, as well as other foods containing phenol, including cranberries, cocoa, peanuts, pistachios and dark chocolate.

Resveratrol is also sold over the counter as an isolated supplement, but it is unclear if its use in this way will provide the same health benefits. Individuals should consult their doctor before consuming phenol as a supplement.