Japanese knotweed is a plant whose root is the main source of resveratrol supplements, taken for blood sugar control and longevity. The most consistent human findings are modestly better blood sugar control and lower blood pressure in type 2 diabetes; hopes of slowing aging rest on animal work. Main downsides are digestive upset at high doses and interference with how the body clears several common medications. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| HbA1c | 4.8–5.3% | Tracks glycemic benefit |
| Fasting glucose | 75–90 mg/dL | Early glycemic change |
| hs-CRP | Below 1.0 mg/L (ideally below 0.5) | Tracks inflammatory benefit |
| ALT | Below 25 U/L | Liver safety |
| ALP | 40–100 U/L | Liver and bone safety |
| Creatinine and eGFR | eGFR above 90 mL/min/1.73 m² | Kidney safety |
| Lipid panel (LDL, HDL, triglycerides) | LDL below 100 mg/dL; triglycerides below 100 mg/dL | Cardiovascular marker change |
| Platelet count | 150–400 × 10⁹/L | Bleeding safety |
| INR (warfarin users only) | 2.0–3.0 for most warfarin indications (individual target may differ) | Detect interaction |
| Blood pressure | Below 120/80 mmHg | Cardiovascular effect |
| Bone mineral density (postmenopausal women) | No established functional target; track change from own baseline | Bone benefit |
Cadence: Baseline panel before starting; INR within 1–2 weeks for warfarin users; liver and kidney markers at 8–12 weeks; then HbA1c, hs-CRP, lipids and liver enzymes every 6–12 months while use continues; bone density scans every 2 years for postmenopausal women using it for bone health.