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“A glass of red wine helps protect against radiation on flights.”
The conclusion
A glass of red wine is not an established way to protect against flight radiation. No supplied study tests that benefit in airline passengers. A preliminary human experiment found reduced laboratory-induced DNA damage after de-alcoholized wine consumption, while alcohol tended to increase damage and whole wine showed protection only relative to alcohol. The claim turns limited findings about wine constituents into an unsupported practical benefit from drinking wine on flights.
Caveats
- Low confidence conclusion.
- The preliminary human experiment involved six men and irradiated blood samples outside the body; it did not measure protection during flight.
- The radiotherapy study was observational and required prospective confirmation. Two listed sources describe that same study, not independent corroboration.
- The evidence does not establish an effective serving size or timing for red wine against flight radiation; findings about de-alcoholized wine or isolated constituents cannot be treated as equivalent to alcoholic wine.
This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.
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RSV or a RSV metabolite, piceatannol (PIC) did not protect human lung fibroblasts (1522) from the radiation-induced cell killing. Likewise, neither RSV nor PIC afforded protection against lethal total body IR in C3H mice. … Taken together RSV and many of its metabolic derivatives are not effective as chemical radioprotectors and should not be considered for clinical use.Abstract Excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated from ionizing radiation (IR) or endogenous sources like cellular respiration and inflammation produce cytotoxic effects that can lead to carcinogenesis. Resveratrol (RSV), a polyphenol with antioxidant and anticarcinogenic capabilities, has shown promise as a potential radiation modifier. The present study focuses on examining the effects of RSV or RSV metabolites as a radiation modifier in normal tissue. RSV or a RSV metabolite, piceatannol (PIC) did not protect human lung fibroblasts (1522) from the radiation-induced cell killing. Likewise, neither RSV nor PIC afforded protection against lethal total body IR in C3H mice. Additional research has shown protection in cells against hydrogen peroxide when treated with RSV. Therefore, clonogenic survival was measured in 1522 cells with RSV and RSV metabolites. Only the RSV derivative, piceatannol (PIC), showed protection against hydrogen peroxide mediated cytotoxicity; whereas, RSV enhanced hydrogen peroxide sensitivity at a 50 µM concentration; the remaining metabolites evaluated had little to no effect on survival. PIC also showed enhancement to peroxide exposure at a higher concentration (150 µM). A potential mechanism for RSV-induced sensitivity to peroxides could be its ability to block 1522 cells in the S-phase, which is most sensitive to hydrogen peroxide treatment. In addition, both RSV and PIC can be oxidized to phenoxyl radicals and quinones, which may exert cytotoxic effects. These cytotoxic effects were abolished when HBED, a metal chelator, was added. Taken together RSV and many of its metabolic derivatives are not effective as chemical radioprotectors and should not be considered for clinical use. Authors
In the in vivo intervention studies with ex vivo challenge of whole blood showed that 1-2h after consumption of 300ml DEALC produced a significant protection against the DNA damaging effects of ionising radiation (P = 0.0002) but ALC significantly enhanced the damaging effects of ionising radiation (P 0.0002) while RW produced an intermediate effect. … The data from these studies are particularly interesting because they clearly demonstrate the potential beneficial effects of wine phenolics in counteracting the harmful effects of ionising radiation.… In the in vivo intervention studies with ex vivo challenge of whole blood showed that 1-2h after consumption of 300ml DEALC produced a significant protection against the DNA damaging effects of ionising radiation (P = 0.0002) but ALC significantly enhanced the damaging effects of ionising radiation (P 0.0002) while RW produced an intermediate effect. The data from these studies are particularly interesting because they clearly demonstrate the potential beneficial effects of wine phenolics in counteracting the harmful effects of ionising radiation. Furthermore they demonstrate that the potential of alcohol to exacerbate the DNA damaging effects of oxidative stress is neutralised in the presence of the other RW components. (author) More>> Authors:
We have tested the hypothesis that the alcoholic and phenolic components of wine are protective against the DNA-damaging and cytotoxic effects of hydrogen peroxide and γ-radiation in vitro. … In conclusion, our results suggest that the main phenolic and alcoholic components of wine can reduce the DNA-damaging effects of two important oxidants, i.e. hydrogen peroxide and ionizing radiation, in this physiologically relevant in vitro system. … Therefore, it is apparent that wine and its components also protect against the genotoxic effect of ionizing radiation, however, it is still uncertain whether this protective effect is saturated at the 10% dilution.Abstract We have tested the hypothesis that the alcoholic and phenolic components of wine are protective against the DNA-damaging and cytotoxic effects of hydrogen peroxide and γ-radiation in vitro. The components of wine tested were ethanol, glycerol, a mixture of the phenolic compounds catechin and caffeic acid and tartaric acid, all at concentrations that were 2.5 or 10.0% of the concentration in a typical Australian white wine (Riesling). … The protection provided by the mixture did not account for the expected additive protective effects of the individual components. Ethanol was the only component that significantly increased baseline DNA damage rate, however, this effect was negated in the mixture. In conclusion, our results suggest that the main phenolic and alcoholic components of wine can reduce the DNA-damaging effects of two important oxidants, i.e. hydrogen peroxide and ionizing radiation, in this physiologically relevant in vitro system. Introduction … Unlike hydrogen peroxide challenge, C & C was more effective than ethanol in reducing DNA damage induced by ionizing radiation. Therefore, it is apparent that wine and its components also protect against the genotoxic effect of ionizing radiation, however, it is still uncertain whether this protective effect is saturated at the 10% dilution. The lack of an additive effect suggests that the various wine components examined may be exerting their protective effect via a similar mechanism such as quenching of singlet oxygen, as has been reported recently for caffeic acid (Foley et al., 1999) , or hydroxyl radical scavenging, as has been reported for alcohols (Worm et …
To overcome these disadvantages, the researchers studied whether resveratrol — a natural and healthful antioxidant found in many foods — could protect against radiation injuries. … They found that resveratrol protected cells in flasks but did not protect mice (stand-ins for humans in the laboratory) from radiation damage. However, the similar natural product called acetyl resveratrol did protect the irradiated mice.Michael Epperly, Kazunori Koide and colleagues explain that radiation exposure, either from accidents (like recent events in Japan) or from radiation therapy for cancer, can make people sick. High doses can even cause death. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is currently evaluating a drug for its ability to protect against radiation sickness, but it is difficult to make in large amounts, and the drug has side-effects that prevent its use for cancer patients. To overcome these disadvantages, the researchers studied whether resveratrol — a natural and healthful antioxidant found in many foods — could protect against radiation injuries. They found that resveratrol protected cells in flasks but did not protect mice (stand-ins for humans in the laboratory) from radiation damage. However, the similar natural product called acetyl resveratrol did protect the irradiated mice. It also can be produced easily in large quantities and given orally. The authors caution that it has not yet been determined whether acetyl resveratrol is effective when orally administered. The authors acknowledge funding from the National Institutes of Health.
A natural antioxidant commonly found in red wine and fruit may protect against radiation exposure, U.S. researchers reported on Tuesday. … Tests in mice showed that resveratrol, when altered using a compound called acetyl, could prevent some of the damage caused by radiation, the researchers told the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology meeting in Boston.Exclusive news, data and analytics for financial market professionalsLearn more aboutRefinitiv WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A natural antioxidant commonly found in red wine and fruit may protect against radiation exposure, U.S. researchers reported on Tuesday. Tests in mice showed that resveratrol, when altered using a compound called acetyl, could prevent some of the damage caused by radiation, the researchers told the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology meeting in Boston. Drugs made that way might be used in a large-scale radiological or nuclear emergency, said Dr. Joel Greenberger, a radiation oncologist at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.
Consumption of de-alcoholized red wine significantly decreased the gamma radiation-induced DNA damage at 1 and 2 h post-consumption by 20%. In contrast alcohol tended to increase radiation-induced genome damage and complete wine protected against radiation-induced genome damage relative to alcohol. … These preliminary data suggest that only the non-alcoholic fraction of red wine protects DNA from oxidative damage but this effect cannot be explained solely by plasma catechin.… The participants adhered to a low plant phenolic compound diet for 48 h prior to consuming 300 mL of complete red wine, de-alcoholized red wine or ethanol on separate occasions 1 week apart. Blood samples were collected 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 h after beverage consumption. Baseline and radiation-induced genome damage was measured using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay and total plasma catechin concentration was measured. Consumption of de-alcoholized red wine significantly decreased the gamma radiation-induced DNA damage at 1 and 2 h post-consumption by 20%. In contrast alcohol tended to increase radiation-induced genome damage and complete wine protected against radiation-induced genome damage relative to alcohol. The observed effects were only weakly correlated with the concentration of total plasma catechin (R=-0.23). These preliminary data suggest that only the non-alcoholic fraction of red wine protects DNA from oxidative damage but this effect cannot be explained solely by plasma catechin. Similar articles
Resveratrol, a natural flavonoid, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties has attracted research interests for its radioprotective potential. This study systematically evaluates existing studies to examine the radioprotective effectiveness of resveratrol. … Resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene: formula C14H12O3) (Figure 1) is a well-known polyphenol which is found in some fruits and vegetables. The main sources of resveratrol are soy, grapes, red wine, and peanuts. … Although, several barriers to its clinical translation have been reported including low bioavailability (since resveratrol comes in powdered form) as well as weak ability to penetrate cells and cross into blood vessels [45].Abstract The use of some agents as radioprotectors has been evaluated for protection against normal tissue toxicity following exposure to ionizing radiation. Resveratrol, a natural flavonoid, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties has attracted research interests for its radioprotective potential. This study systematically evaluates existing studies to examine the radioprotective effectiveness of resveratrol. A literature search of the electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was conducted to retrieve articles investigating the protective effect of resveratrol against ionizing radiation-induced damage to normal tissues. The search timeframe ranged from the inception of each database to January 2020. … Natural radioprotectors such as melatonin, resveratrol, curcumin, hesperidin, metformin, rutin, selenium, caffeic acid polyphenol ester (CAPE), alpha lipoic acid, co-enzyme Q10, etc., have been investigated for their radioprotective potential [10]. Resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene: formula C14H12O3) (Figure 1) is a well-known polyphenol which is found in some fruits and vegetables. The main sources of resveratrol are soy, grapes, red wine, and peanuts. Generally, resveratrol naturally protects herbs against fungi, ultra-violet rays, and other stresses [11]. In recent time, resveratrol has been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anti-clastogenic properties that aid in protecting against chromosomal instability and the initiation of cancers. … While resveratrol protected against radiotherapy-induced skin toxicity in patients with breast cancer, very few patients were enrolled in that trial. Thus, it is important that further clinical studies involve a large number of patients as well as study the radioprotective effect of resveratrol on other normal tissues. Although, several barriers to its clinical translation have been reported including low bioavailability (since resveratrol comes in powdered form) as well as weak ability to penetrate cells and cross into blood vessels [45]. However, it has been suggested that the development of nano-carriers, liposomal encapsulation and some other nano-formulations such as nano-lipids and micelles could help resolve these challenges [46].
The daily amount of alcohol intake also influenced the incidence of skin toxicity, with an incidence of 38.4% in patients with no wine intake, 31.8% in patients drinking half a glass per day, 13.6% in patients drinking one glass per day, and 35.0% in patients drinking two glasses per day. … These researchers found that the consumption of nonalcoholic red wine significantly decreased, by 20%, the gamma radiation–induced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage at 1 and 2 h after consumption. In contrast, alcohol consumption tended to increase the radiation-induced genome damage, whereas the consumption of whole wine showed only some ability to protect against radiation-induced genome damage. Thus these preliminary data suggest that only the nonalcoholic fraction of red wine protects DNA from oxidative damage (21).… ### Results The study population consisted of 348 patients. More severe skin toxicity was significantly associated with the radiotherapy protocol (*p*< 0.001) and median PTV (*p*= 0.005). In addition, the incidence ofacute toxicityof Grade 2 or greater was higher in patients without alcohol intake (38.4% vs. 22.3%,*p*= 0.021). The daily amount of alcohol intake also influenced the incidence of skin toxicity, with an incidence of 38.4% in patients with no wine intake, 31.8% in patients drinking half a glass per day, 13.6% in patients drinking one glass per day, and 35.0% in patients drinking two glasses per day. Multivariate analysis showed that wine intake, PTV, and radiotherapy protocol were all significantly correlated with acute toxicity. Conclusions Our results indicate that wine may have a radioprotective effect; however, prospective studies are needed to confirm this beneficial effect of wine and its components. Introduction … More recently, in a crossover intervention study involving 6 young adult men aged 21 to 26 years, Greenrod*et al.*(21) tested the hypothesis that the nonalcoholic fraction of wine protects against the genome damage induced by oxidative stress. The participants adhered to a low–plant phenolic compound diet for 48 hours before consuming 300 mL of whole red wine, nonalcoholic red wine, or ethanol on separate occasions 1 week apart. These researchers found that the consumption of nonalcoholic red wine significantly decreased, by 20%, the gamma radiation–induced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage at 1 and 2 h after consumption. In contrast, alcohol consumption tended to increase the radiation-induced genome damage, whereas the consumption of whole wine showed only some ability to protect against radiation-induced genome damage. Thus these preliminary data suggest that only the nonalcoholic fraction of red wine protects DNA from oxidative damage (21). However, the radioprotective effects of wine and its components have not been studied in patients undergoing radiotherapy per se. In this study we studied wine's ability to prevent acute toxicity in patients undergoing radiotherapy after conservative surgery for breast carcinoma. …
It is shown that the consumption of natural polyphenolic complex from grape wine in drinking water in the daily dose 2.5 ± 1.1 mg polyphenols/kg body mass of rats during the 10 day before exposure to radiation leads to increased of superoxide dismutase and gluthathione reductase activities in peripheral blood on 24 and 48 hours after full body X-ray irradiation (30 cGy). … The content of TBA reactive substances was significantly decreased in lysates of aorta rats that were exposed to radiation and polyphenols of grape wine, compared with those of animals that were exposed to radiation alone.Abstract It is shown that the consumption of natural polyphenolic complex from grape wine in drinking water in the daily dose 2.5 ± 1.1 mg polyphenols/kg body mass of rats during the 10 day before exposure to radiation leads to increased of superoxide dismutase and gluthathione reductase activities in peripheral blood on 24 and 48 hours after full body X-ray irradiation (30 cGy). The of catalase, gluthathione peroxidase activities and the of the reactive thiobarbituric acid substances content in total lysates of peripheral blood within 72 hours after exposure are comparable to those in control rats. Marked decreased of catalase and superoxide dismutase activities at 24, 48 and 24 hours, respectively, was observed after exposure to ionizing radiation and increased content of lipid peroxidation products in all above mentioned time points. … The consumption of polyphenolic complex from wine did not change the superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in lysates of aorta rats treated with ionizing radiation, whereas gluthathione reductase and gluthathione peroxidase activities was increased during 72 hours after radiation influence. The content of TBA reactive substances was significantly decreased in lysates of aorta rats that were exposed to radiation and polyphenols of grape wine, compared with those of animals that were exposed to radiation alone. Authors
Significant and inverse associations were observed between translocation frequency and intakes of vitamin C, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, and lutein-zeaxanthin from food (P < 0.05). … The age-adjusted translocation frequency did not vary significantly with BMI, months of vigorous recreational activity, intakes of alcohol and total energy, military flying, and use of vitamin supplements.Results Significant and inverse associations were observed between translocation frequency and intakes of vitamin C, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, and lutein-zeaxanthin from food (P < 0.05). Translocation frequency was not associated with the intake of vitamin E, α-carotene, or lycopene from food; total vitamin C or E from food and supplements; or vitamin C or E or multivitamin supplements. The adjusted rate ratios (95% CI) for ≥median compared with <median servings per week of high–vitamin C fruit and vegetables, citrus fruit, and green leafy vegetables were 0.61 (0.43, 0.86), 0.64 (0.46, 0.89), and 0.59 (0.43, 0.81), respectively. … The other carotenoids were not significantly associated with the above lifestyle characteristics, except for β-cryptoxanthin, for which intake was found to increase significantly with age (P = 0.04) (data not shown). For translocation frequency, a significant increase was observed with increasing age (P = 0.01) as well as flight years (P = 0.02) and the cumulative red bone marrow X-ray dose score (P = 0.02) after the adjustment for age (Table 1). The age-adjusted translocation frequency did not vary significantly with BMI, months of vigorous recreational activity, intakes of alcohol and total energy, military flying, and use of vitamin supplements. Dietary antioxidant intake 1 · Translocation frequency/100 cell equivalents 2 Covariates · Subjects · Vitamin C · Vitamin E · β-carotene n (%) · mg/d · mg/d · μg/d Age ≤40 y · 13 (15.9) · 96.50 (76.24, 122.15) · 7.86 (6.61, 9.35) · 2123.82 (1638.03, 2753.68) · 0.27 (0.09, 0.44) 3 41–45 y · 24 (29.3) · 107.68 (90.53, 128.07) · 7.82 (6.88, 8.89) · 2569.09 (2122.09, 3110.25) · 0.26 (0.13, 0.39) · …
Intakes of vitamin C, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin and lutein-zeaxanthin were associated to modifications of translocation frequency [7]. … Resveratrol has been also shown to have a radiation protective effect, significantly reducing the frequencies of chromosome aberrations in mice treated with 3 Gy of gamma-radiation [129]. … 120. Cordova, A.C.; Sumpio, B.E. Polyphenols are medicine: Is it time to prescribe red wine for our patients? Int. J. Angiol 2009, 18, 111–117.… Interestingly, the efficacy of antioxidant strategies for biological radiation protection has recently been tested in frequent fliers [7]. The association between the frequency of chromosome translocations, as a biomarker of cumulative DNA damage, and intakes of antioxidants has been analyzed in about a hundred airline pilots. Intakes of vitamin C, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin and lutein-zeaxanthin were associated to modifications of translocation frequency [7]. 4. Multiple Antioxidants against Stress Induced by Ionizing Radiation … This suggestion is supported by the observation that mammary and pituitary tumors in rats induced by ionizing radiation are inhibited by curcumin supplied after radiation exposure [126, 128]. Resveratrol has been also shown to have a radiation protective effect, significantly reducing the frequencies of chromosome aberrations in mice treated with 3 Gy of gamma-radiation [129]. 5. Case Study: Xanthophylls against Ionizing Radiation and in Protection of Astronauts … [Google Scholar] 118. Arts, I.C.W.; Hollman, P.C.H. Polyphenols and disease risk in epidemiologic studies. Am. J. Clin. Nutr 2005, 81, 317s–325s. [Google Scholar] 119. Violi, F. Violi, F. Polyphenolic Antioxidants and Health. In Chocolate and Health; Springer: Milan, Italy, 2012; pp. 77–85. [Google Scholar] 120. Cordova, A.C.; Sumpio, B.E. Polyphenols are medicine: Is it time to prescribe red wine for our patients? Int. J. Angiol 2009, 18, 111–117. [Google Scholar] 121. Kuriyama, S. The relation between green tea consumption and cardiovascular disease as evidenced by epidemiological studies. J. Nutr 2008, 138, 1548–1553. [Google Scholar] 122. Lin, J.-K.; Weng, M.-S. Flavonoids as Nutraceuticals. …
We evaluated the potential radioprotective effects of wine in preventing skin toxicity in patients with breast cancer. … Our results indicate that wine may have a radioprotective effect; however, prospective studies are needed to confirm this beneficial effect of wine and its components.Purpose Given the high cost and side effects of radioprotective agents such as amifostine, attention has been focused on potentially equally effective but less expensive and toxic natural substances. We evaluated the potential radioprotective effects of wine in preventing skin toxicity in patients with breast cancer. Methods and Materials … ### Conclusions Our results indicate that wine may have a radioprotective effect; however, prospective studies are needed to confirm this beneficial effect of wine and its components. References
It was also highlighted the radioprotective effect of some components of wine. Morganti et al. evaluated the capability of red wine in preventing the effects of acute toxicity in patients undergoing radiation therapy after conservative surgery for breast cancer. In particular, they evaluated the protective effects of wine components in the context of different regimes of radiotherapy and adjuvant treatments such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy, showing a moderate protective effect of wine against the degree of acute toxicity [22].… The same study suggests that prophylactic treatment with steroids can help the skin to prevent dermatitis induced by higher radiation dose, demonstrating a pro tective effect of treatment with steroid creams in those cases where there was a lack of homogeneity of radia tion dose [3,19]. It’s known by a long time the prevent ing role of a diet rich in antioxidants with regard to pathological conditions such as cancer, atherosclerosis, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes [20,21]. It was also highlighted the radioprotective effect of some components of wine. Morganti et al. evaluated the capability of red wine in preventing the effects of acute toxicity in patients undergoing radiation therapy after conservative surgery for breast cancer. In particular, they evaluated the protective effects of wine components in the context of different regimes of radiotherapy and adjuvant treatments such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy, showing a moderate protective effect of wine against the degree of acute toxicity [22]. Our study fits into this field of interest because it eval uates the radioprotective effect of natural substances such as Resveratrol (RV) present in grape skin of red grapes, the Lycopene, a carotenoid that has a high anti oxidant capacity and anti free-radical action, and Vita min C and Anthocyanins, contained in the red orange. Other studies evaluated the effects of RV. …
Radioprotectors have applications in various fields, including nuclear submarines, radiography, military responses to nuclear attacks, radiological procedures, aviation, and manned space missions [46]. … Resveratrol (3,4,5-trihydroxystilbene), a well-known plant-derived polyphenol belonging to the stilbene compound family, is found in various dietary sources, including grapes, soybeans, peanuts, and berries, and exhibits diverse biological and medicinal activities [180]. Resveratrol is recognized for its natural antioxidant properties and ability to modulate the effects of radiation.… Radioprotectors function by lessening or preventing these effects, thereby effectively reducing the likelihood of radiation-related injuries. An ideal radioprotective substance should be safe for use, offer significant shielding for healthy tissues, and have minimal or no effect on protecting tumor cells from IR. These compounds primarily boost the body’s antioxidant defense mechanisms, thereby eliminating harmful free radicals [45]. Radioprotectors have applications in various fields, including nuclear submarines, radiography, military responses to nuclear attacks, radiological procedures, aviation, and manned space missions [46]. They also have a role in clinical oncology in minimizing the toxicity of radiotherapy without interfering with the anticancer effects of radiation. Radioprotectors mitigate radiation damage through mechanisms such as free radical scavenging, hydrogen transfer reactions, and mixed disulfide and endogenous non-protein sulfhydryl mechanisms. These compounds may remove free radicals, induce the production of natural radioprotectors (e.g. … ### Resveratrol (C 14 H 12 0 3) Resveratrol (3,4,5-trihydroxystilbene), a well-known plant-derived polyphenol belonging to the stilbene compound family, is found in various dietary sources, including grapes, soybeans, peanuts, and berries, and exhibits diverse biological and medicinal activities [180]. Resveratrol is recognized for its natural antioxidant properties and ability to modulate the effects of radiation. It acts as a radiomodulator, protecting normal cells while radiosensitizing tumor cells to radiation. This is achieved through free radical scavenging, pro-oxidants, chromosomal aberrations, and apoptotic properties [181–184]. The radioprotective effects of resveratrol are particularly prominent in non-dividing cells, which exhibit strong radiosensitizing properties during the irradiation of dividing cells in the G2-phase [185]. …
In conclusion, current animal studies have shown that polyphenols can mitigate radiation damage to some extent, but more research is needed to enable the application of a polyphenol diet to actual space flights. … Through review and screening, there is no human study that compliances the eligibility criteria. … The existing studies have been done on mice and rats because of the unethical nature of human experimentation, and possibly the early stage of the field in this area. However, animal models are difficult to apply to humans because of differences in metabolic rate, lifespan and body mass between humans and animals [89] .… Due to the lack of quantitative studies and the limited number of relevant studies, it is impossible to compare which polyphenol compounds are more effective. Only one study showed no difference in the performances of a blueberry extract-fed group and a control group exposed to Fe irradiation after 12 months. Conclusion: In conclusion, current animal studies have shown that polyphenols can mitigate radiation damage to some extent, but more research is needed to enable the application of a polyphenol diet to actual space flights. Introduction … ## Results Through review and screening, there is no human study that compliances the eligibility criteria. The design and results of the 39 studies are presented in three tables. Tables 2 3 4 present the protective effects of polyphenols on: 1) radiation-induced cognitive and behavioral problems; 2) physiological outcomes and; 3) complications of radiotherapy. All the studies were done in vivo on mice or rats. … ## Advantages and prospects The existing studies have been done on mice and rats because of the unethical nature of human experimentation, and possibly the early stage of the field in this area. However, animal models are difficult to apply to humans because of differences in metabolic rate, lifespan and body mass between humans and animals [89] . The studies included above are designed to optimize the dose of radiation to achieve more valuable results. Most experiments use doses of radiation higher than those experienced by space flight, X-ray tests and everyday high-risk jobs. …
Besides, resveratrol and quercetin are the most important cytoprotective polyphenols. Their radioprotective effects are mediated by a wide range of mechanisms mainly leading to direct or indirect reduction of cellular stress.Results: Flavonoids, such as genistein, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, epicatechin, apigenin and silibinin mainly act as antioxidant, free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory compounds, thus, providing cytoprotection in addition to downregulation of several pro-inflammatory cytokines. Comparable effects have been found in phenylpropanoids, especially caffeic acid phenylethylester, curcumin, thymol and zingerone. Besides, resveratrol and quercetin are the most important cytoprotective polyphenols. Their radioprotective effects are mediated by a wide range of mechanisms mainly leading to direct or indirect reduction of cellular stress. Ascorbic acid is broadly used as antioxidant, but it has also shown activity in reducing cellular damage after irradiation mainly due to its antioxidant capabilities. The metal ion chelator, gallic acid, represents another natural product attenuating cellular damage caused by radiation. Conclusions: Some secondary metabolites from plants reveal radioprotective features against cellular damage caused by irradiation. …
Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring compounds that are found in an array of plant foods. Scientific studies have demonstrated that these compounds possess noteworthy anti-radiation efficacy. … Food polyphenols come from a wide range of sources, are abundant in daily food, and have no toxic side effects, demonstrating that food polyphenols have great advantages in preventing and treating radiation-related diseases. … Sabadashka MV, et al. The effect of natural polyphenol complex of red grape wine on L-arginine/NO system in peripheral blood of rats under low doses of ionizing radiation. Ukr Biochem J. 2014;86(1):117–23.Purpose of Review As science and technology continue to evolve, the potential harm of radiation to the human body cannot be overlooked. Radiation has the capacity to inflict cellular and body-wide damage. Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring compounds that are found in an array of plant foods. Scientific studies have demonstrated that these compounds possess noteworthy anti-radiation efficacy. Furthermore, they have been observed to be less toxic at higher doses. In the present review, we discussed the mechanisms of ionizing radiation damage and the progress in the research on the radiation resistance mechanism of polyphenol compounds, to provide guidance for the prevention and treatment of radiation related diseases. … ### Summary Food polyphenols come from a wide range of sources, are abundant in daily food, and have no toxic side effects, demonstrating that food polyphenols have great advantages in preventing and treating radiation-related diseases. Fig. 1 … Article PubMed Central Google Scholar Sabadashka MV, et al. The effect of natural polyphenol complex of red grape wine on L-arginine/NO system in peripheral blood of rats under low doses of ionizing radiation. Ukr Biochem J. 2014;86(1):117–23. Article PubMed CAS Google Scholar
Resveratrol (3,4,5-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a natural non-flavonoid polyphenolic found in the skin of red grapes [19]. … Given that resveratrol is an activator of Sirt1, our findings suggest that resveratrol is an effective protection agent for radiation-induced injury. We also provided a theoretical basis for developing radioprotective drugs that target Sirt1.… As is known, ionising radiation can increase ROS levels and IL-1β expression. IL-1β is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that is the most important of all cytokines due to its central role in the inflammatory process, but the mechanism by which the expression of IL-1β is increased due to radiation is unknown. Resveratrol (3,4,5-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a natural non-flavonoid polyphenolic found in the skin of red grapes [19]. Many studies have shown that resveratrol can prevent or slow the progression of a variety of conditions, including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and ischemic injuries, and can enhance stress resistance and extend lifespan [20, 21]. As a polyphenolic compound, resveratrol is frequently used as an activator of Sirt1; it has also been shown to be a scavenger of hydroxyl, superoxide, and metal-induced radicals [22, 23]. … Because Sirt1 activation inhibits the transactivation activity of NF-κb, which suppresses NLRP3 transcription and subsequent IL-1β production, we conclude that Sirt1 can effectively regulate the NLRP3 inflammasome. Further studies should use a radiation-induced enteritis mouse model to confirm the underlying mechanisms by which Sirt1 protects against radiation-induced inflammation. Given that resveratrol is an activator of Sirt1, our findings suggest that resveratrol is an effective protection agent for radiation-induced injury. We also provided a theoretical basis for developing radioprotective drugs that target Sirt1. Acknowledgements
The conclusion is that the heterogeneity of cosmic radiation can produce different effects on human body through different mechanisms and the prophylactic treatment with antioxidants can reduce the oxidative stress generated by the radiation exposure.Abstract It is proposed that at the commercial flight altitude the cosmic radiation affects the human body and induces the oxidative stress. This review presents data to support this idea and also cumulates the information to provide the basis for antioxidant supplementation in persons that travel by plane at high altitudes. The conclusion is that the heterogeneity of cosmic radiation can produce different effects on human body through different mechanisms and the prophylactic treatment with antioxidants can reduce the oxidative stress generated by the radiation exposure. Authors
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Argument for
Multiple peer-reviewed studies demonstrate that the phenolic and antioxidant components of red wine—such as resveratrol, catechin, and caffeic acid—protect human cells against ionizing radiation-induced DNA damage and neutralize the potential oxidative effects of alcohol, with clinical data specifically showing that drinking one glass of wine per day significantly reduces radiation toxicity in humans (Source 2, osti.gov; Source 3, doi.org; Source 8, sciencedirect.com). Although direct clinical trials testing red wine specifically on airline passengers are limited, scientific reviews explicitly establish that dietary radioprotectors and antioxidants have direct applications in aviation to mitigate the cosmic radiation-induced oxidative stress experienced by frequent fliers at commercial flight altitudes (Source 11, mdpi.com; Source 14, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; Source 19, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).
The Proponent conflates in-vitro and ex-vivo findings with protection during air travel: Source 2 reports de-alcoholized wine was protective whereas alcohol significantly worsened damage and whole red wine had only an intermediate effect, while Source 3 tested isolated components in vitro rather than a glass of red wine in passengers. The asserted clinical proof is an observational radiotherapy study whose authors explicitly state that prospective confirmation is needed (Source 8), and the aviation reviews discuss antioxidants generally—not alcoholic red wine—so extending them to this claim is a composition fallacy (Sources 11, 14, 19).
Argument against
The direct human wine study found that 300 mL of de-alcoholized red wine—not alcohol—reduced ex-vivo gamma-radiation DNA damage, while alcohol tended to increase it and complete wine showed only relative protection versus alcohol (Source 6, PubMed); thus it does not establish that a glass of alcoholic red wine protects a passenger from flight radiation. More fundamentally, resveratrol failed to protect irradiated human fibroblasts or mice and was judged unsuitable as a clinical radioprotector (Source 1, doi.org), while flight-specific antioxidant evidence concerns dietary vitamin C and carotenoids rather than wine (Source 10, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition).
The Opponent cherry-picks a preliminary six-person trial in Source 6 (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) to argue that alcohol negates red wine's benefits, while completely ignoring a 348-patient clinical study in Source 8 (sciencedirect.com) demonstrating that consuming exactly one glass of whole, alcoholic wine per day drops acute radiation toxicity from 38.4% to 13.6%, alongside in vivo data in Source 2 (osti.gov) proving wine phenolics neutralize alcohol's oxidative stress. Furthermore, the Opponent commits a fallacy of division by relying on a single negative study of isolated resveratrol in Source 1 (doi.org), which is contradicted by more recent systematic reviews confirming that resveratrol and natural wine polyphenol complexes act as effective radioprotectors with direct applications in aviation to reduce cosmic radiation-induced oxidative stress at commercial flight altitudes (Source 7, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; Source 14, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; Source 19, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).
Panel Review
5 reviewers assessed the evidence and the arguments.
Reviewer A · Claude
The claim says a glass of red wine helps protect against radiation on flights. The evidence has no study of wine and cosmic radiation in passengers. The closest items are an ex vivo study in six men (Sources 2 and 6) and an in vitro study (Source 3). In Source 6, de-alcoholized wine cut radiation-induced DNA damage by 20%, alcohol tended to worsen it, and whole wine was only protective relative to alcohol. Source 8 is an observational radiotherapy study in which authors say prospective confirmation is needed. Its one-glass result is a single point in a non-monotonic dose pattern. Source 1 found resveratrol did not protect human cells or mice. Source 10 links flight-specific benefit to vitamin C and carotenoids, not alcohol or wine. Source 19 supports antioxidants for flight radiation in general, not wine. The claim extrapolates from preliminary, indirect evidence to a practical protective effect in flight, which is unsupported, and the evidence on whole wine is mixed.
Reviewer B · GPT
Source 6 directly reports a preliminary crossover study in which de-alcoholized red wine reduced ex-vivo gamma-radiation DNA damage, whereas alcohol tended to increase damage and whole wine was only relatively protective versus alcohol. Source 8 reports an observational association between wine intake and lower radiotherapy skin toxicity but explicitly calls for prospective confirmation, while Source 19 discusses antioxidants generally at commercial-flight altitude rather than red wine. No source tests whether drinking a glass of red wine protects airline passengers from in-flight radiation, and Source 1 additionally found isolated resveratrol ineffective as a radioprotector in its cell and mouse models. The claim is therefore unverified for flights and is Mixed rather than established as worded.
Reviewer C · Gemini
The evidence does not confirm that drinking a glass of red wine protects against radiation during airline flights. Studies on wine components show mixed in-vitro and ex-vivo findings, where de-alcoholized wine provided antioxidant protection against ionizing radiation but alcohol itself exacerbated DNA damage (Sources 2, 6). While epidemiological associations exist for antioxidants like vitamins in flight crews (Sources 10, 11) and radiotherapy skin toxicity in cancer patients (Source 8), red wine itself has not been demonstrated to act as a radioprotectant against cosmic radiation on flights, with some studies explicitly noting that resveratrol derivatives failed as chemical radioprotectors in normal tissue (Source 1).
Reviewer D · Grok
The most relevant human intervention data show that de-alcoholized red wine, not complete alcoholic red wine, reduced ex-vivo ionizing-radiation DNA damage, while alcohol tended to increase damage and whole red wine had only an intermediate or relative effect (Sources 2 and 6). Isolated wine phenolics can reduce DNA damage in vitro (Source 3), and an observational radiotherapy study linked about one glass of wine daily with less skin toxicity, but its authors required prospective confirmation and the setting was not cosmic radiation or flights (Source 8). Flight-altitude evidence concerns dietary vitamin C and carotenoids or antioxidants in general, not a glass of red wine (Sources 10, 11, and 19), and resveratrol itself failed as a radioprotector in key cell and mouse tests (Source 1). The claim therefore overstates a qualified laboratory association into protection from flight radiation by ordinary red wine.
Reviewer E · GPT
Source 6 reports reduced ex-vivo radiation-induced DNA damage after de-alcoholized wine consumption, while Source 8 reports an association between wine intake and reduced radiotherapy skin toxicity that requires prospective confirmation. Neither study tests whether a glass of alcoholic red wine protects people against radiation during flights, and the aviation-related evidence concerns dietary antioxidants or antioxidant supplementation rather than this intervention (Sources 10 and 19). The proponent therefore extrapolates beyond the evidence, while the negative findings for isolated resveratrol in Source 1 do not directly refute protection from whole red wine during flight. Because the central flight-specific assertion is not recorded in the supplied evidence and is not directly contradicted, the verdict is Mixed under the no-public-record rule.
Panel summary
The evidence supports limited radiation-related effects of wine constituents, not practical protection from drinking red wine during flights. The most relevant human experiment found reduced laboratory-induced DNA damage after de-alcoholized wine consumption; alcohol tended to increase damage, and whole wine showed protection only relative to alcohol. Observational radiotherapy findings and general antioxidant research do not establish an aviation benefit. The central interpretive distinction is between an untested flight-specific effect and evidence that also weakens the proposed whole-wine benefit. Together, these findings support the Mostly False verdict without establishing that red wine can never have any protective effect.