Effect of resveratrol on exercise capacity: a randomized placebo-controlled crossover pilot study.

To assess the effect on exercise capacity and tolerability of resveratrol, 13 healthy, sedentary adult volunteers were enrolled in a randomized crossover study comparing resveratrol and placebo over two 4-week periods, with a 2-week time between periods when subjects received no treatment. No significant changes in exercise duration or aerobic capacity (peak oxygen uptake) were observed. Gastrointestinal side effects were more common during resveratrol treatment (77% vs. 15%, p = 0.0048). A small reduction in fasting glucose and small but statistically significant increases in liver enzymes, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were observed, although mean results remained within normal limits. There was no change in complete blood count, inflammatory markers, renal function, or other measures of liver function.