Nonalcoholic compounds of wine: the phytoestrogen resveratrol and moderate red wine consumption during menopause.

The literature on the natural sources of resveratrol, a phytochemical substance found in grapes and wine, is reviewed herein. Its structure is similar to that of diethylstilbestrol and, like other authors, we consider that resveratrol might be a phytoestrogen. We analyzed the populations who ingest this substance, as well as the known biological effects of phytoestrogens in humans. The literature on the effects of resveratrol on female reproduction, osteoporosis and cancer was assessed using relevant case reports and cohort studies, as well as randomized trials and review articles. We conclude that phytoestrogens exhibit physiological effects in humans and that these estrogenic actions increase the biological reactions produced by moderate red wine consumption with meals.