Grape seed extract is a natural plant substance
that has a concentrated source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins
(OPC). These anti-oxidants help protect cells from free radical
damage and also promotes healthy circulation. Grape Seed Extract
is rich in polyphenols, a compound that's high in antioxidants.
Studies have shown OPC to be more powerful antioxidants than vitamin
C, E, and beta-carotene.
Before Grape seed extract was discovered, the
best sources of antioxidants came from vitamin C,
E, and beta-carotene; however, these sources were
not powerful enough to fight the free radicals and
are also excreted by the body within a short time
of ingestion. Grape seed extract, on the other hand,
has been shown to remain in the body for as long as
3 full days, and is 20 times more potent than vitamin
C, and 50 times more stronger than Vitamin E.
The research done on Grape Seed Extract first
came about in late 20th century from the "french
paradox", where the French had very low rates
of heart disease, while some of their diet and other
factors would contribute to higher incidence of heart
diseases. Scientists believed the secret was in their
red wine, and further research demonstrated that OPC
present in their red wine promotes cardiovascular
health, and now, grape seed extract has been found
to contain the richest sources of OPCs. It can be
said that grape seed extract is one of the most powerful
antioxidants available.
Grape Seed Extract Benefits
There are countless studies that demonstrates
the many health benefits of grape seed extract. It has been extensively
research across the globe. In the research of Dr. Jacques Masquelier
et al., the Pasteur & Huntington Institutes and 7 other leading
Universities in Europe, Grape Seed Extract has been shown exceptionally
effective fighting against free radicals in the body.
Many research publications have reported on
the health benefits of grape seed extracts including antioxidant
activity, improving cardiovascular health, and gastric health.
There are also extensive research done on ActiVin
grape seed extract (ActiVin is a well known brand of grape
seed extract).
Below are some health benefits of grape seed
extract:
Grape seed extract is one of the most powerful
antioxidants that fights free radicals
Grape seed extract is 20 times more potent
than Vitamin C and 50 times stronger than Vitamin E
Grape seed extract helps improve cardiovascular
health
It also helps promote brain, skin and eye
health
Grape seed extract is also anti-bacterial,
anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory
Grape seed extract is one of the few antioxidants
that can penetrate the blood brain barrier to help protect the
brain and nerve tissue
Some studies have also shown grape seed extract
to prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries
It can also improve mental alertness and
help prevent senility
Grape Seed Extract Side Effects
Thus far, there are little or no side effects
reported with grape seed extract, and no drug interactions have
been reported either. However, grape seed extract may cause excessive
bleeding for individuals taking blood thinners, and also, you
should not take grape seed extract if you're allergic to grapes.
Some minor side effects may include dizziness,
nausea, and it may interfere with cholesterol lowering drugs.
Of course, if you have concerns, it's always a good idea to consult
a health care professional before using any supplements.
There's no established recommended daily amount
for grape seed extract, but most research doses range from 50mg
to 200mg per day. Debasis Bagchi, a leading grape seed extract
researcher recommends daily dose of 50mg for ages 30 to 40 years,
100mg for ages 40 to 50 years, and 200mg for adults older than
50 years.
