In a nutshell
This study aimed to investigate the effects of resveratrol on diabetic kidney disease. The main finding of the study was that resveratrol reduced the amount of protein lost in the urine in diabetic kidney disease.
Some background
Diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy) is a common complication of diabetes. One of the ways to measure kidney disease is by the amount of protein in the urine (albuminuria). A test called urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) is used to estimate how much protein is in the urine over 24-hours. The higher the UACR, the worse the kidney disease. Another way to measure kidney disease is by measuring how fast the kidneys filter the blood. This is called the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The higher the eGFR, the better the kidney function. The amount of creatinine in the blood can also be measured. The higher the creatinine level, the worse the kidney disease.
Resveratrol is a natural substance found in grape skins and red wine. It has been found to have many anti-inflammatory and cell-protective effects.
It is unknown if resveratrol can improve kidney function in patients with diabetic kidney disease.
Methods & findings
This study included 60 patients with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either resveratrol (500mg/day) or a placebo for 90 days.
After 90 days, the average UACR was significantly reduced in the resveratrol group compared to the placebo group. It was reduced by 46.4 mg/g in the resveratrol group compared to 29.9mg/g in the placebo group. However, eGFR and blood creatinine were unchanged. The levels of antioxidants (substances that defend cells from damage) were higher in the resveratrol group.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that resveratrol reduced the amount of protein lost in the urine in patients with diabetic kidney disease.
The fine print
This was a small study with only 60 patients. Larger studies are needed for more data.
Published By :
Diabetes & Metabolism
Date :
Jan 17, 2019
