June 1, 2011
We already know a compound found in red wine may help your heart.
Now researchers are studying resveratrol to see if it may help reduce the short and long term effects of concussions.
Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center are studying professional boxers to see if resveratrol helps reduce the effects of being hit in the head.
At the start of the study, participants were given an MRI and a cognitive test.
The boxers are given a pill form of resveratrol daily.
Scientists hope to see if the compound reduces damage to the brain after being hit, as well as whether antioxidants in the compound help restore functions.
If successful the team hopes their findings could apply to concussions sustained in other sports, as well as every day incidents.
They hope to release their findings by December.