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Grape Seed Extract Capsules

What is Grape Seed Extract?

Grape seed extract benefits the body as a natural plant product rich in procyanidins and polyphenols, which act as an effective binder of molecules that damage cell membranes known as free radicals.

Grape seed extract comes from the seeds of Vitis vinifera L., a variety of wine grapes. The grape seed contains polyphenols, a compound high in antioxidants. It is also high in flavonoids, phytochemicals whose antioxidant properties rival those of well-known sources like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene - the precursor to vitamin A.

Antioxidants assist in protecting cells from damage and promote healthy circulation.

Grape seed extracts contain procyanidolic oligomers (PCOs), also known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Other sources of OPCs are berries and green tea. Aside from being powerful antioxidants, OPCs inhibit a number of enzymes that degrade connective tissue such as elastase, collagenase and hyaluronidase.

Although antioxidants are found in vitamin C, E, and beta-carotene (provitamin A), the vitamins are excreted by the body within a short time of ingestion. Grape seed extract, in contrast, is believed to remain available in the body for as long as three days.

Research on grape seed extract first came about in the late 20th century as the "French paradox" was studied. The French had very low rates of heart disease when their fatty diet - which should have contributed to higher incidence of heart disease - was considered. Research pointed to the French penchant for red wine as a factor. Further research has shown the OPC present in red wine promotes cardiovascular health. Grape seed extract is a rich source of OPCs.

What is in Grape Seed Extract powder?

Grape seed extract contains healthy ingredients including protein, lipids, carbohydrates and polyphenols (which come mainly in the form of flavonoids, also known as bioflavonoids). One specific class of phenol available in grape seed is called procyanidin. It was first found in 1936 by Professor Jacques Masquelier, who named it Vitamin P (the name didn't stick and has since fallen out of usage). Procyanidins bond and work well with collagen, a key component of skin, gums, bones, teeth, hair and body tissues. Procyanidins also help protect the body from the sun's harmful rays.

One other of the grape's hidden health weapons is also worth a mention: resveratrol. This chemical is found primarily in the skin and seeds of the grape. Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant, providing nutritional support for health of the cardiovascular system.

Benefits of Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed acts as an antioxidant and promotes a healthy cardiovascular system. Antioxidants are helpful because they fight and destroy free radicals, items found in the body that damage cell membranes.

The other main benefit of grape seed stems from the flavonoids it contains, promoting healthy cholesterol levels.

Purity and Concentration of Grape Seed Extract

This food-grade grape seed extract powder is standardized to contain at least 95% proanthocyanidins. It contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents.

Potential Side Effects of Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract is safe at suggested serving sizes. Some people have reported headaches, a dry, itchy scalp, dizziness or nausea. Do not take grape seed extract if allergic to grapes.

Suggested Use of Grape Seed Extract

The recommended serving size for grape seed extract is 250 milligrams (3/32 tsp) taken twice a day, depending on individual needs. Do not take than 500 milligrams per day without medical advice. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for Grape Seed Extract here.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract powder is relatively simple to stir into a small glass of juice or water and drink. It can also be sprinkled on food prior to eating. In serving sizes larger than 100 milligrams grape seed extract will likely be too bitter for most individuals to tolerate. Grape seed capsules may be the best option for taste-sensitive people.

The key ingredient, proanthocyanidin, has a half-life of approximately 72 hours in the body. Thus, taking it every other day will maintain sufficiently constant levels in the blood.

How should I store it?

You will receive a resealable bag of this powder. Store in a cool, dry area protected from light. Reseal after each use.

References and Further Research

University of Maryland: Vitamins - Healthy Foods

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Grape Seed Extract

Linus Pauling Institute: Flavonoids

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.