Science vs. hype: why resveratrol isn’t in HOP Box

We frequently get asked why we chose not to include resveratrol in our HOP Box formula. Despite its rapid rise to fame as a longevity supplement, we didn’t include resveratrol for one simple reason: we didn’t think the science supported its use.

Are you ready for story time? It’s a good one!

The sirtuin story

The excitement around resveratrol, a polyphenol found in berries and red wine, began in the early 2000s when Harvard researcher David Sinclair, PhD, and his team discovered that resveratrol could activate the sirtuin SIRT1, a protein thought to mimic the life-extending effects of caloric restriction. They published their findings in Nature and Science in 2003, which fueled public and scientific interest (and gave many people the excuse they needed to drink more red wine!).

The fluorescent dye controversy

However, subsequent research published in 2005 revealed a critical flaw in these initial studies. Resveratrol’s apparent activation of sirtuins was not due to the compound itself but rather to the fluorescent dye used in the experiments!

But wait, it gets better!

The GSK saga: a cautionary tale

Despite the Great Fluorescent Dye Debacle of 2005, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) purchased the rights to Sinclair’s resveratrol product for $720 million three years later.

GSK reportedly invested billions (with a “B”!) of dollars in its resveratrol products but ended up stopping its clinical studies when some patients developed kidney damage. Adding to the controversy, GSK reportedly considered legal action against Sinclair, although specific details of the lawsuit remain unclear.

Lifespan: A public stage for resveratrol

The plot thickens because in 2019 David Sinclair published his best-selling book Lifespan: Why We Age—and Why We Don’t Have To. In the book, Sinclair highlighted resveratrol as a sirtuin activator and a potential key to increasing lifespan.

Resveratrol became a household name, and supplement sales went through the roof!

Our decision: why no resveratrol in HOP Box

At HOP, we include ingredients based on solid, reproducible science. While resveratrol continues to be marketed as a longevity enhancer, the conflicting research and the fluorescent dye controversy have led us to take a more cautious approach.

Two years ago, when we formulated HOP Box, we extensively reviewed the scientific literature and consulted with leading experts in the field. Given the unresolved questions surrounding resveratrol’s mechanism of action and its benefits, we chose not to include it in HOP Box.

Moving forward with proven ingredients

Instead of resveratrol, we have focused on ingredients with a more established safety and efficacy track record. Our selections are designed to support longevity through well-documented pathways, ensuring that every component of HOP Box meets our rigorous standards for promoting health and vitality.

Thank you for your trust in HOP.

Now, who wants a glass of red wine?

P.S. If you want to take a deep dive into the history of resveratrol, check out THIS ARTICLE.