The researchers desired to find out if resveratrol could duplicate the effects of caloric restriction in human fat cells by altering their function or size. Other studies had previously demonstrated that resveratrol inhibited lab mice, fed high calorie diets, from becoming obese by matching the effects of caloric restriction.

In their tests they saw that resveratrol hindered the pre-fat cells from increasing and from changing into mature fat cells. Resveratrol was also found to inhibit fat storage. The most intriguing discoveries from their lab tests, related to obesity prevention or treatment possibilities, were firstly,that resveratrol decreased the creation of specific cytokines that may be linked to obesity connected disorders like diabetes, and secondly, resveratrol activated the production of a protien called adiponectin which is known to reduce the risk of heart attacks and is decreased by the onset of obesity.

In summary, the researchers from Germany concluded that resveratrol holds some promise in the treatment of obesity and obesity related disorders such as diabetes and clogged heart arteries.

The article was referenced from Science Daily which reviewed this study funded by the German Research Association and the Ministry of Science, Research and Arts.