Grape seed extract (GSE) is one of the most commonly consumed dietary supplements in the US; a result of its impressive constellation of health attributes.
Grape Seed Extract, an antioxidant extracted from of the grape seed "pip", is used for conditions related from the heart and blood vessels, such as hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, to poor circulation. GSE combats diabetes, nerve and eye damage; vision problems, such as macular degeneration and swelling after an injury or surgery. The extract may also reduce eye stress caused by bright lights.
Antioxidants sop up pesky scavenger molecules before they get the chance to damage or destroy your body's cells. The Proanthocyanidins in GSE strengthen walls of all your blood vessels and may prevent scratched, dented or stiff blood vessels from leaking. The potent compound belongs to the family of (EFA's) Essential Fatty Acids, which prevent abnormal clotting. Proanthocyanidins "speed-bump" the deterioration of blood vessels, stabilize collagen and maintains elastin a connective tissue protein that supports organs, joints and muscles. GSE is believed to encourage faster, stronger healing with less scarring.
The extract may help to prevent or control damage to body cells that is caused by diseases, drugs, pollution, tobacco and cancerous free-radicals. Encouraging studies reveal these "janitors" antioxidant bioflavonoids are 20 to 50 times more effective than Beta-Carotene or Vitamins C and E at mopping up specific free radicals.
Resveratrol in GSE blunts cancer cell growth and division, as well as causing some cancer cells to fall to pieces more rapidly. It may block enzymes that start and prolong the survival of several cancer cell types, including breast cancer, prostate cancer and skin cancer. Because higher than usual numbers of cancer cells die, tumors either stop growing or actually shrink.
Studies of GSE indicate possible antiviral activity against HIV. Although the exact ways that grape seed extract fights other viruses are not known. It is thought that grape seed extract interferes with viral growth, perhaps by preventing viral attachment to host cells.
What to Look for
Make a friend at your local health food store to insure every time you need an honest opinion, you'll have an informed guide.
GSE is obtainable in a wide variety of dietary supplements and nutraceutical foods. Most products can be found at your local health food store packaged in light-protective containers. You can also order directly from a manufacturer if you wish.
Common Pitfalls
More is not better. High doses of GSE may have some anticoagulant properties. Take blood-thinner? Be wary of taking high doses of GSE without medical supervision. If your phlebotomist says it will affect your INR, then your physician should adjust your dose to balance the GSE in your system. The recommended adult daily dosage is 50 to 100 milligrams, although up to 200 milligrams per day split into 2 doses of 100 milligrams each is a safe and effective dose to take with meals.
Maximum safe dosages for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease have not been established. Interactions between grape seed extract, medicines or other supplements have not been carefully studied. Reported side-effects include headache; a dry, itchy scalp; dizziness; and nausea. Form a partnership with your PCP. Inform them of any complementary or alternative practices you use to manage your health to guarantee safety.
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