Strength Training and Resveratrol

Resveratrol-mediated Changes in Extracellular Vesicle microRNA Cargo as a Novel Contributor to Resistance Training-induced Skeletal Muscle Adaptations in Older Adults

The main goal of this study is to find out if supplementing with resveratrol improves skeletal muscle adaptations to strengthening exercise (resistance training or strength training) in adults age 60+, and to determine whether circulating vehicles of inter-organ communication (extracellular vesicles) and their cargo might help explain those responses. The investigators will also examine whether resveratrol supplementation improves blood vessel function and cognitive function (brain health) in response to strength training.

After screening and providing informed consent, participants (healthy older adults, age 60+, minimally active) will be familiarized with the procedures and undergo pre-testing. After pre-testing, participants will be assigned to supplement with resveratrol or placebo (double-blinded) daily while undergoing a strength training intervention. Strength training will be performed 3x/week for two 6-week blocks, and each visit will be supervised by a member of the study team. An additional week of testing will follow each of the two 6-week blocks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 60+
• Minimally active (less than 1 hour of structured exercise/week other than walking)
• No resistance training for the previous 6 months
• Not currently taking resveratrol supplements
• Stable medication, supplement, dietary, and physical activity regimens for the previous 3 months and no plans to change throughout the study period
• Body mass at least 110 lbs

Exclusion Criteria:

• Medical complications that could increase risk during exercise (e.g., cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, type 1 or 2 diabetes, orthopedic contraindication to exercise, kidney disease, etc.)
• Cannabis or nicotine use
• Consume more than 7 alcohol-containing beverages per week