06 Jun Study Cautions Against Resveratrol Supplements During Pregnancy
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Antonio E. Frias, MD
Associate Professor | Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine
Oregon Health & Science University
Director, Diabetes and Pregnancy Program
Assistant Scientist | Oregon National Primate Research Center
Portland, Oregon 97239
MedicalResearch: What are the main findings of the study?
Dr. Frias: Resveratrol supplementation in pregnant nonhuman primates fed a Western-style diet improved maternal metabolism, restored placental blood flow, reduced placental inflammation and improved lipid deposition in the fetal liver. However, there was an unexpected disruption of fetal pancreatic development that is very concerning.
MedicalResearch: Were any of the findings unexpected findings?
Dr. Frias: The negative impact on the fetal pancreas was unexpected and is really concerning.
MedicalResearch: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?
Dr. Frias: The most important message is that women should be very careful about what they consume while pregnant, and they should not take supplements, like resveratrol without consulting their doctors. Our results strongly suggest that resveratrol supplements should be avoided during pregnancy.
MedicalResearch: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Dr. Frias: Understanding the mechanisms that led to the beneficial effects for the mother and placenta may permit development of more targeted strategies that can improve pregnancy complications and avoid the negative effects on fetal pancreatic development.
Citation:
Last Updated on February 4, 2015 by Marie Benz MD FAAD