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Grape Seed Extract
Antioxidant
Grape
Seed Extract with whole grapes has more antioxidant activity than grape seed
alone, and is one of the richest sources of proanthocyanidins, antioxidants
that may limit damage by free radicals and help to keep artery walls
flexible, an important part of circulatory system well-being.
Specifically, grape seed extract may help to:
• Prevent
heart disease. The risk for heart attack and stroke may be reduced with
this potent antioxidant, which is believed to prevent the plaque development
that can clog arteries. A recent study of 38 smokers indicates that PCOs may
function as effectively as aspirin in keeping blood cells from sticking
together and forming blood clots (called an anticoagulant effect). And the
PCOs posed no risk of the gastrointestinal irritation or bleeding generally
associated with aspirin. Interestingly, another preliminary study using
grape seed oil (which is related to grape seed extract) indicates that using
2 tablespoons a day to replace other oils in cooking could increase HDL
("good") cholesterol by 14% and reduce triglycerides by 15% in just four
weeks.
•
Minimize fibromylagia damage. Fibromyalgia is an elusive disorder
associated with chronic muscle pain and stiffness.
The antioxidant power of
grape seed extract can help by protecting besieged muscle cells from damage.
• Deter
cancer. The antioxidants in grape seed extract work hard at helping to
control cellular damage, routinely hunting down and neutralizing mutations
within the genetic material of cells that could lead to tumor formation. The
development and progression of cancers of the lung, breast, stomach,
prostate, colon, skin and other body parts may be stalled as a result.
• Fight
skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema. Certain components within
the skin--collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid--participate in keeping it
healthy. PCOs help keep these substances in good shape by blocking enzymes
that might disrupt their chemical structure. In this way, grape seed extract
may be useful in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Its flavonoids also inhibit allergic reactions that can generate such skin
problems as eczema.
• Slow
progression of macular degeneration and cataracts. Grape seed extract
improves blood flow in the eye's tiny vessels, where certain eye diseases
can cause blockages and impairments that result in vision damage. Cataracts
are an example.
The extract's antioxidant powers are of particular value in
warding off the free-radical damage so frequently cited as the leading cause
of macular degeneration.
• Lessen
allergy symptoms. As a natural antihistamine, grape seed extract may
help to control the sneezing, congestion and other hallmarks of an allergic
reaction. The extract also inhibits the release of chemicals called
prostaglandins that can generate inflammation during an allergic response.
Working in concert, the nutrient's antihistamine and anti-inflammatory
actions can help to keep at bay such allergic responses as hives, hay fever
and eczema.
• Ease
eye strain. People who stare at computer monitors for extended periods
may benefit from taking grape seed extract.
The findings of one recent study
indicate that 300 mg, taken daily, will ease eyestrain and enhance
perception of contrast after just 60 days.
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