An  important component of red wine could actually kill pancreatic cancer cells.  In a study performed by Paul Okunieff of the University of Rochester Medical Center it was discovered that resveratrol,  an antioxidant contained in the skin of red grapes could be effective in halting the growth of pancreatic cancer cells when combined with chemotherapy.

Currently treatment of pancreatic cancer by chemotherapy  for the most part is ineffective as the pancreas produces a steady stream of digestive enzymes that tend to flush out chemotherapy drugs before they can do their job.  The addition of resveratrol appears to make cancerous pancreatic tumor cells more responsive to traditional cancer treatment while making healthy tissue less sensitive.

The amount of resveratrol in wine varies according to the type of grape used, its vineyard source and handling procedures therefore care should be taken in choosing the best quality.  Fortunately  high quality resveratrol and red wine supplements are available through a number of manufacturers.  Be sure to do your homework however as not all supplements are as potent as claimed.  Spend a little extra if necessary to get one that lives up to the label on the bottle.

More study is needed to confirm the effectiveness of resveratrol against pancreatic cancer but the results form this early study are very promising.  Indeed, if this proves to be as effective as expected it will be yet another documented health benefit of resveratrol.