Grape seeds, filled with potent antioxidants, may benefit many health conditions, including some related to healthy blood sugar and vision.
Grape seed extract has many health benefits
What is Grape Seed Extract?
The grape seed extract is an industrial derivative of whole grape seeds. It contains proanthocyanidins (the active substances in grape seeds). These chemicals are converted to procyanidins, which measure the quality of grape seed extract. A good product should contain 95% procyanidins, varying considerably from product to product. Grape seed extract also differs in potency.
Health Benefits of Grape Seed Extract
The health benefits of the grape seed extract are numerous and varied. It is an antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage. Free radicals are responsible for inflammation and oxidative stress, and grape seed extract may help reduce human cancer risk.
Antioxidants fight oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are negatively charged and cause harmful chemical interactions. Antioxidants help balance free radicals, which can also reduce the risks of aging. A grape seed extract has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits. As a bonus, grape seed extract is a potent antioxidant. By regulating the heart rate, grape seed extract may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Some other health benefits of grape seed extract include increased blood glucose sensitivity and decreased oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. A study published in the April 2012 issue of "Current Eye Research" found that the antioxidants in grape seeds protect the cells in the retina, which are responsible for color discrimination and vision in low light conditions. In addition, this extract can help slow the development of macular degeneration and prevent cataracts.
Side Effects
There are a few side effects of grape seed extract. Grape seed may increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, you must talk to your doctor if you take blood-thinning medications. Similarly, taking grape seed extract while drinking grape juice may increase the body's ability to break down the drug Phenacetin, which may decrease its effectiveness. Some side effects of grape seed extract include a sore throat, dry mouth, and abdominal pain.
If you are using grape seed extract as a supplement, you must know that it can interact with other medications. Grape seed extract can interact with NSAID painkillers, blood thinners, certain heart medicines, and cancer treatments. Pregnant women and children should not take grape seed extract because of the risks involved. But, if your condition is severe and your physician recommends it, you can use it safely. However, it would be best if you did not increase the dosage of your current medication without consulting your health care provider.
Considerations
There is no scientifically-substantiated recommended dosage of grape seed extract, so it's always recommended to seek medical advice before taking it. The best way to avoid the side effects of grape seed extract is to consult with a qualified herbalist.
