What is Grape Seed Extract?
Date:
27 Nov 2024
Grape seed extract is commonly known as a dietary supplement derived from grape seeds and is renowned for its numerous health benefits. It has been shown to help relieve stress, reduce inflammation and support tissue health, especially when dealing with chronic conditions. Grape seed extract is made by removing, drying, and grinding the bitter-tasting seeds of grapes.
This article explores what grape seed extract is, its health benefits, and how it may contribute to a well-rounded wellness routine.
What is Grape Seed Extract?
Grape seed extract is packed with antioxidants, including phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes [OPCs]. These antioxidants are essential for disease prevention, protecting against oxidative stress, and reducing tissue damage and inflammation.
Among its rich array of nutrients, grape seed extract is one of the best sources of proanthocyanidins, compounds known to offer protective health effects.
So, what exactly can grape seed extract do for us? Let’s explore some of its primary benefits.
Benefits of Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract has been studied for its effects on high blood pressure. Research indicates that the antioxidants in grape seed extract may protect blood vessels from damage, helping to reduce blood pressure over time. This protective effect can support heart health by maintaining strong, healthy blood vessels 1.
Could Reduce Oxidative Damage
High levels of LDL [bad] cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, particularly when it becomes oxidised. Grape seed extract may help reduce LDL cholesterol and prevent its oxidation, protecting the heart from long-term damage. This, in turn, could lower the risk of atherosclerosis — a buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries that can obstruct blood flow [2].
May Improve Blood Flow
Studies suggest that grape seed extract might enhance blood flow due to its blood-thinning properties. This could be beneficial in reducing the risk of blood clots, making grape seed extract potentially helpful for those with circulatory issues or conditions like deep vein thrombosis [DVT]1.
Supports Brain Health as it Ages
The flavonoids in grape seed extract combine antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help delay or reduce the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
One of grape seed extract’s components, gallic acid, has been shown to inhibit the formation of beta-amyloid fibrils. These protein clusters in the brain are characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease, so grape seed extract may play a role in reducing Alzheimer’s risk 2.
May Protect Your Liver
The liver is essential for detoxifying harmful substances, including pollutants, alcohol, and certain medications. Grape seed extract appears to have protective effects on the liver by reducing inflammation, recycling antioxidants, and guarding against free radical damage, particularly during toxin exposure.
This makes grape seed extract an excellent option for those looking to support their liver health 1.
How to Take Grapeseed Extract
For general health benefits, the recommended oral dosage of grape seed extract is up to 2500 mg per day, which is approximately 1–3 capsules. As always, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider to find the right dosage for your needs.
Conclusion
Grape seed extract is a powerful supplement made from grape seeds and is an abundant source of antioxidants, especially proanthocyanidins.
These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage commonly associated with chronic diseases. Supplementing with grape seed extract may benefit your heart, brain, kidneys, liver, and skin.
We recommend giving grape seed extract a try to see how it can support your health journey.
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