Resveratrol, a phenol found in red wine, could be used to protect astronauts' muscles during extended stays in space or on future Mars missions. During recent experiments, scientists found that resveratrol essentially preserves muscle mass and strength in rats exposed to the wasteful effects of simulated Martian gravity. The NASA-funded study was published in the journal Frontiers in Physiology.
Research has shown that extended periods of time in space have a negative impact on muscles and bones. “After just three weeks in space, the human soleus muscle shrinks by a third,” said Dr. Marie Mortreux, a researcher at Harvard Medical School, in a press release. “This is accompanied by a loss of slow-twitch muscle fibers needed for endurance.”
On the International Space Station, astronauts have exercise equipment to help them maintain the strength and health of their muscles. On oneSpace mission to Marshowever, over long distances, astronauts will not have the same resources. Mars is about nine months away from Earth, according to NASA.
Hayden Panettiere: love affair with Brian Hickerson?
Love over for Hayden Panettiere and Brian Hickerson? It remains to be seen whether the separation rumors are really true. Hayden and Brian's relationship has often been described as turbulent by the US media. The actress has always emphasized that she is very happy.
Scientists have been looking for nutritional supplements that could help astronauts prevent muscle and bone loss. The possible health benefits of resveratrol, a compound found in the skin of red grapes andBlueberriesoccur were examined in the current study.
To recreate the conditions of microgravity - Mars has 40 percent of Earth's gravity - the scientists fitted 24 male rats with a full-body harness and suspended them from the cage ceiling on a chain so that their feet could barely touch the floor. Half of the rats received resveratrol in their water. The others got clean water. Otherwise they freely fed on the same food.
During the 14-day study, scientists measured the rats' calf circumference and the strength of their hind paws.
The results were impressive. The muscles of the rats that drank only water became smaller and weaker, but for the others, resveratrol almost completely prevented the loss of muscle fibers. The researchers say the compound's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects could help maintain muscle and bone health. The compound may also protect against reduced insulin insensitivity.
Further experiments are needed to determine ideal dosage levels for men and women and to investigate possible complications with other medications and supplements.
Link toOriginal reportin English
