Medical practitioners have used grapes for centuries. Early European folk healers used an ointment made from grapevines to treat skin and eye disease. And, drinking wine --- made from grapes --- is often touted as a preventative measure for cardiovascular disease. Diabetes affects circulation, skin and vision, so the known healing benefits linked to grapes can aid diabetics in many ways. Grape seed oil is one way to reap these benefits.
Inside the Grape Seed
A close look at the chemical makeup of grape seeds gives us an idea why its extract contains so many health benefits. The main active ingredient in grape seeds is oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs. OPCs contain antioxidants and antihistamine properties. Grape seeds also contain Vitamin E, flavonoids and linoleic acid. Each of these offers its own healing qualities, many of which can benefit someone with diabetes.
Repairing Diabetic Retinopathy
A complementary therapy guide penned by the Susan G. Komen Foundation explores the many conditions that grape seed oil can play a beneficial role in, including diabetic retinopathy. Using a letter grading scale of A through F, the guide rates its use for retinopathy a B, based on scientific evidence. Diabetic retinopathy affects the small blood vessels in the retina of the eye. OPCs come to the rescue; their anti-inflammatory agents help stop the disease's progression. In fact, grape seed extract's healing properties aid in other vascular-related disorders, such as varicose veins.
Improving Leg Vein Circulation
Legs and feet are an area of concern for diabetics. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, grape seed extract helped improve symptoms associated with poor leg circulation, including swelling, itching, cramping, tingling and numbness. Further, notes the New York University's Langone Medical Center, the OPCs in grape seed can help alleviate pain associated with this condition as well.
Lowering Cholesterol
The Joslin Diabetes Center, affiliated with Harvard Medical School, reports that integrating healthy fats into your diet can help aid in nutrition for diabetes patients. The guide explains that eliminating fatty foods isn't the best option, but rather you should eat foods containing fats that offer health benefits. This list includes polyunsaturated fat, which can lead to decreased LDL and increased HDL ("good" cholesterol). Grape seed oil is one source of this, according to Joslin nutritionist Tracey Lucier.
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