There are many reasons to drink red wine, eat grapes or take vitamin supplements, not the least of which is the presence of resveratrol, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that researchers say may slow cellular aging and neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

Research published in the journal ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters recently pointed to another potential benefit of resveratrol-like compounds. Besides protecting cells from oxidative damage these molecules may reduce the extent of radiation sickness.

The authors, who hail from the University of Pittsburgh, explained that following the Fukushima nuclear reactor disaster, scientists are searching for more ways to protect humans from radiation poisoning.

They stated that in laboratory tests, a compound called acetyl resveratrol protected mice from some of the more severe effects of irradiation. While the group did not suggest that downing red wine can prevent radiation sickness, they did express hope that this finding will one day contribute to more effective preventative measures against the harm caused by nuclear fallout.

In day-to-day life, consuming plenty of resveratrol may have anti-aging and anti-carcinogenic properties, according to dozens of recent studies.