5 Foods with More Resveratrol Than a Glass of Red Wine

Red wine is often touted for its heart-healthy benefits, which is largely thanks to its high concentration of resveratrol—a polyphenol with potent antioxidant properties. “Studies suggest [resveratrol] may be helpful in lowering blood pressure, promoting weight loss and improving blood sugar levels by boosting insulin production and enhancing insulin’s effectiveness,” says Anne Danahy, MS, RDN. 

However, you don’t have to drink red wine to reap the benefits of resveratrol. There are several food sources of this potent antioxidant, including nuts and some dark blue or red fruits. “They might not all match red wine gram for gram, but they come packed with antioxidants, fiber and way more nutritional perks—minus the hangover,” says Ghida Arnaout, RD. Here are five foods to buy during your next grocery store run to boost your resveratrol intake.

1. Grapes

“Grapes and red wine are among the highest sources of resveratrol,” says Danahy. Specifically, resveratrol is found in high concentrations in the skin of grapes, which is why white and rosé wines contain far less resveratrol than their red wine counterparts. One hundred grams of red wine provides anywhere from 320 to 1535 micrograms (mcg) of resveratrol, while grapes contain 150 to 781 mcg per 100 grams., However, Danahy emphasizes that the amount of resveratrol can vary in foods (including grapes) depending on multiple factors including growing conditions, time of harvest and plant variety. We love adding grapes to chicken salad or enjoying them as a snack with cheese and crackers. 

2. Walnuts

One of the most surprising sources of resveratrol is walnuts. These heart-healthy nuts are a top source of this antioxidant with a similar amount of resveratrol per 100 grams that’s found in red wine. “Besides resveratrol, walnuts are also notable for having high levels of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats, along with vitamin E, other polyphenols and prebiotic fiber,” says Danahy. You can enjoy walnuts in a trail mix, on top of oatmeal or other hot cereal or blended into a sauce. 

3. Blueberries

Grapes aren’t the only fruit with resveratrol. Blueberries are another top source of the antioxidant, though the amount varies significantly depending on growing conditions, variety and processing. And while not as concentrated in resveratrol as grapes or red wine, blueberries are considered a good source of the antioxidant. They also offer a host of other important nutrients for heart health, including 3.5 grams of fiber per cup. They also contain potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K and several other essential vitamins and minerals. Blueberries are incredibly versatile, working well in smoothies, hot or baked oatmeal, baked goods, jams, sauces and salads. They’re also delicious on their own or as part of a cheese plate. 

4. Cranberries

Fresh cranberries aren’t as readily available as other berries, so you may need to venture into the frozen food aisle to stock up on this nutrient-dense fruit. Cranberries are not only rich in antioxidants, including resveratrol, but they also contain a variety of other health-promoting nutrients, like vitamin C and fiber., Like blueberries, the concentration of resveratrol in cranberries can vary significantly depending on growing conditions, variety and processing. Try cranberries in a smoothie, cooked down into a sauce or dried in a trail mix. You can also add cranberries to a dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

5. Peanuts

• The humble peanut is an unexpected source of resveratrol in the diet. Like other foods, the amount varies depending on growing conditions and processing. Peanuts also contribute protein, fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats., Try peanuts in a trail mix or roasted with extra spices.

What to Know About Red Wine Consumption

Resveratrol offers health benefits, but red wine may not be the best choice to up your intake. “While red wine does contain some beneficial compounds like resveratrol, the health risks of alcohol often outweigh the potential perks, especially when it’s not consumed in strict moderation,” says Arnaout. Plus, the health benefits of resveratrol are typically seen when consumed in levels that are difficult to get from food or drinks alone. As Danahy points out, research suggests you need to consume about 1 gram (1,000 mg) per day to get a significant health benefit—an amount that’s virtually impossible to get through foods and beverages. According to one study, you’d need to consume 4.2 liters of red wine daily to reach this amount.

Drinking red wine in moderation can fit into a healthy lifestyle, but there’s no reason to add alcohol to your diet if you don’t already drink it on a limited basis. Danahy also cautions against taking resveratrol supplements because most of the research on the safety and efficacy of the antioxidant has been done in animals. “In human studies, the health benefits of resveratrol are less clear due to mixed results or varying amounts of the compound used in the studies,” she says.

Our Expert Take

Drinking red wine as a means for adding resveratrol to the diet is unlikely to have the positive health effects you’re hoping for. Instead, if you’re looking to boost your resveratrol intake, opt for foods like grapes, walnuts, peanuts, blueberries and cranberries. In addition to containing resveratrol, these foods offer other health-promoting nutrients, like fiber, vitamin C and potassium. Danahy also stresses the importance of eating a variety of whole foods. “Resveratrol is just one plant compound with health benefits, but none of these phytocompounds work in isolation,” says Danahy. “A healthy diet rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and other whole foods can provide hundreds of beneficial nutrients that work together to deliver their powerful health benefits.”