Grape Seed Extract

About Grape Seed Extract

Grape Seed Extract, derived from Vitis vinifera, is well known for its high antioxidant content. However, the benefits of Grape seed extract extend will beyond this basic value, to anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects, while also a natural protectant of the liver, nervous system and heart. These benefits were reported in a review article published in May 2016 by Phytotherapy Research. These beneficial health effects are likely due to its naturally high concentration of plant compounds, called phenolics.

By definition, antioxidants are cellular protectants that neutralise free-radicals and the detrimental effects they have on the body. However, we don't need to neutralise all free-radicals, as we need some to maintain health. Some free-radicals are synthesized and released in the human body for specific purposes. For instance, some leukocytes (white blood cells) release free-radicals to destroy harmful infections. Therefore, there does need to be a balanced approach to antioxidant supplementation, where a broad range is used and not in excessive quantities.

Given the poor quality of westerners diets and the high level of environmental pollutants that we are exposed to, a supplemental form of antioxidants is still a great idea. This is especially the case for people living in cities, with diets lacking in a broad range of antioxidant rich foods. As a good general rule of thumb, the antioxidant content of your diet can be assessed based on the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables it contains, and also the variety of colours found in the fresh produce you consume, as different colours represent different phytochemicals, each with unique health benefits and antioxidant activity.

Quality foods such as organic cacao, blueberries and walnuts—amongst many others—have been tested and shown to be exceptionally high on the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) scale—a measure of the antioxidant potency of a substance. When assessing the antioxidant potency of a food or extract, the ORAC scale is a fantastic reference tool.

Grape Seed Extract—ideally in combination with a diet rich in a broad range of antioxidant foods—may assist with a broad range of health maladies and support the maintenance of general health.