Grape seed extract has increasingly been touted for its medicinal benefits for certain health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer prevention, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Grape seed extract supplements, which are commonly produced from the grape seeds left over from wine producers, can be found in tablet and capsulated forms. The potential health benefits of grape seed extract is dependent upon its chemical ingredients.
Vitamin E
Grape seed extracts are highly concentrated in a number of healthy nutrients, including vitamin E, also known as alpha-tocopherol. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that has important antioxidant properties that prevent the harmful oxidation of fat molecules within the body's tissues. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health, vitamin E has also been shown to boost immune system function, regulate cell communication and participate in some metabolic processes. The recommended amount of vitamin E intake is approximately 15 mg per day for adults. While the exact amount of vitamin E will vary depending upon the grape seed extract manufacturer, it is commonly found at much higher concentrations than the recommended daily allowance. If you are considering adding grape seed extract to your diet, you should first consult your primary physician.
Antioxidants
In addition to being a rich source of the essential vitamin E antioxidant, grape seed extracts are also loaded full of other powerful antioxidants, including oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes, or OPCs, and flavonoids, such as resveratrol. Similar to vitamin E, these antioxidants destroy the harmful free radicals in your cells and tissues that cause damage to your DNA, which can lead to cell death and a host of health complications. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, OPCs are considered super antioxidants and are purported to be beneficial in the treatment of heart disease and wrinkled skin. Flavonoids, including resveratrol, which is also found in red wine, has been highly touted for its heart-healthy benefits, primarily due to its powerful antioxidant properties.
Linoleic Acid
Grape seed extract also contains an essential omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid. Along with omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids are important to maintain healthy skin, regulate bone metabolism, promote a healthy reproductive system, and play a prominent role in neuronal communication. According to the University of Maryland, a healthy diet should include an equal balance of these two types of fatty acids; however it is estimated that Americans consume up to 25 times more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. Some linoleic acids are unhealthy because they stimulate inflammation, whereas other linoleic acids, such as gamma-linoleic acid reduce inflammation. As with any dietary supplement, you should seek the consent of your primary care provider before adding them to your nutritional diet plan.
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