Welcome To The Biotivia Resveratrol Blog

Urgent Health Alert Warning: A Resveratrol Supplement containing a compound called Tween is a possible health hazard

Friday, January 9th, 2009

Another day, another resveratrol scam. This latest one is not only irresponsible but may be hazardous to your health as well. A Resveratrol reseller has begun adding the industrial chemical Polysorbate 80 to their product. The company claims that this chemical, also known by the trade name Tween and Tween 80, increases bioavailability of the resveratrol contained in the company’s supplement. There is absolutely no evidence to support this claim. Tween is not intended to be used for this purpose and can be toxic at high doses easily consumed in such supplements. It is commonly used in industrial detergents, shampoos and degreasers and for the remediation of toxic wastes. There is no evidence that Tween in any way enhances resveratrol bio activity or any other beneficial property. Given its chemical properties there is no reason to believe that it would enhance resveratrol. It is an emulsifier whose function is to break down fats and grease.  Resveratol is not a fat, although it is soluble in oil.  Consequently Tween use in a supplement merely for marketing purposes is an outrageous and irresponsible violation of product safety and common sense.  However the bigger issue is that Tween has been associated with severe side effects in humans.

Dr. Joseph Maroon’s new book the Longevity Factor is now available!

Friday, January 2nd, 2009

Dr. Joseph Maroon, distinguished Neurosurgeon and Professor at the University of Pittsburgh, has completed his landmark publication on resveratrol and its potential for improved health and longevity.  The book may be obtained on Amazon or
at your local book shop.  This book represents the most current and authoritative work on longevity.  We can not recommend it highly enough.