Would you believe the benefits of grape seed extract are said to outweigh the benefits of eating grapes?
Where Grape Seed Extract Comes From
Grapes have long been touted as a rich source of antioxidants. We've seen the debates about whether or not drinking wine is good for you, and studies have shown that moderate consumption of wine does offer health benefits. However, you can drink grape juice and enjoy the same results. Both of these industries do more than most people realize to promote health by by producing a waste product called grape seed extract.
Benefits of Grape Seed Extract Are Numerous
Grape seed extract is a concentrated, natural plant material filled with antioxidants known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins. Some research has shown that these antioxidants offer protection to your cells from free radicals. However, not everyone is totally sold on the role grape seed extract plays in fighting cancer so researchers have planned a controlled study that examines the result of taking different dosages.
While we wait for results to learn what dosage is ideal, we can know that the nutrients found in grape seed extract are proven. Including this supplement in your diet provides your body with a great source of:
- Vegetable protein
- Lipids
- Carbohydrates
- Polyphenols
Polyphenols
The polyphenols are a kind of bioflavonoid with a reputation as a potent antioxidant. When researched, these polyphenols were shown to be 50 times more powerful than vitamin C and 20 times more powerful than vitamin E. Think about that the next time you reach for a glass of orange juice, and you may decide to make a change to grape juice.
Anti-Aging Properties
Not only does grape seed extract help you maintain health and feel better, another benefit is that it can actually help you to look better, too. It helps with the prevention of premature aging and promotes younger-looking skin. This is the result of the collagen in the body bonding with "procyanidins" found in grape seed extract. Collagen is a vital factor in healthy cells and promotes elasticity of the skin. Because of its role in cell production, it also works to produce healthy:
- Body tissues
- Bones
- Gums
- Hair
- Skin
- Teeth
Grape Seed Extract and Your Vision
Looking good is one thing, but seeing better is another benefit you'll enjoy when adding grape seed extract to your nutritional regiment.
Grape Seed Extract and Your Memory
Grape seed extract also contains the chemical resveratrol. This chemical helps to promote all the benefits already listed, but it is also thought to improve memory. Ongoing studies are looking into the use of grape seed extract to help fight Alzheimer's.
Other Benefits
- An anti-inflammatory that improves joint flexibility
- Improved artery health (which can lower high blood pressure)
- Strengthens capillaries
- Improved circulation
- Reduction of bad cholesterol
While studies are ongoing, many people believe the benefits of grape seed extract in your diet are numerous. Proponents of the extract believe adding it to your diet will help your system to fight:
- Viruses
- Allergens
- Carcinogens
Grape Seed Extract and Cancer
One benefit of taking grape seed extract that is being studied further is its ability to fight cancer. Scientists theorize that grape seeds contain properties that are anti-tumor-promoting as well as anti-carcinogenic. The January 1, 2009, issue of Clinical Cancer Research reported that a study performed by researchers from the University of Kentucky found that the use of grape seed extract killed 76 percent of leukemia cells within 24 hours of being exposed to the extract.
Laboratory studies regarding the use of grape seed extracts to fight or prevent cancer are also looking into the benefits of taking grape seed extract to fight the following cancers:
- Breast
- Stomach
- Colon
- Prostate
- Lung
Until the Proper Dosage Is Determined
Grape seed extract is easily available but until the right dosage is determined scientifically, people are curious to know how much they should take. If you are ready to add grape seed extract to your dietary supplements, talk to your doctor or dietitian to see what dosage they recommend. While you're at it, you may also want to look into the benefits of grape seed oil.
