Grape Seed Extract And Grape Skin Extract
Also known as: Grape Seed Extract, Grape Skin Extract, Grape Seed and Skin Extract, GSE, GSSE
Overview
Grape seed extract (GSE) and grape skin extract are derived from the seeds and skins of *Vitis vinifera* L., respectively. These extracts are rich in polyphenols, particularly oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), which are known for their strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The extracts are popularly utilized for cardiovascular health, potential diabetes management, and cancer prevention. GSE is available in various forms, including capsules and tablets, and exhibits a moderate level of research maturity, with numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses confirming their efficacy while also expressing variability in study quality and methodologies.
Benefits
GSE has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, including: 1. **Oxidative Stress Reduction**: Significantly decreases levels of malondialdehyde and oxidized LDL, indicating a reduction in oxidative damage. 2. **Lipid Profile Improvement**: Reduces fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, showing particular efficacy for individuals with diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors. 3. **Inflammation Reduction**: Lowering of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) supports potential benefits in inflammatory conditions. 4. **Neuroprotective Effects**: There is preliminary evidence suggesting benefits in diabetic neuropathy. The clinical significance of these benefits has been documented in multiple high-quality studies, with effects typically observed within weeks to months of supplementation.
How it works
Grape seed extract works primarily through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and reducing inflammatory markers. It modulates the body's redox state, affecting lipid metabolism and inflammation. Proanthocyanidins interact with cellular targets to mitigate oxidative stress, enhancing overall cellular health. The absorption and bioavailability of these polyphenols can vary, although they generally exhibit good absorption.
Side effects
Grape seed extract is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Common side effects (present in more than 5% of users) may include gastrointestinal upset, while uncommon or rare side effects are not well documented. There are potential interactions with anticoagulants and other medications, necessitating consultation with healthcare providers for individuals on such treatments. Due to limited data, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Special populations, including those with underlying health conditions, should seek medical guidance prior to starting supplementation.
Dosage
The typical minimum effective dose of GSE is 100-200 mg per day, with an optimal dosage range of 200-400 mg daily for desired antioxidant effects. While maximum safe doses have not been firmly established, GSE is generally considered safe up to 1,000 mg per day. It is advisable to take GSE with meals to mitigate any potential gastrointestinal discomfort. The bioavailability of the extract may be enhanced by fatty meals, and while no specific cofactors are required for efficacy, dosing guidelines should be followed judiciously.
FAQs
Is Grape Seed Extract safe?
Grape seed extract is generally considered safe for most individuals but may interact with certain medications, especially blood thinners.
How should I take Grape Seed Extract?
It is best to take GSE with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits such as improvements in oxidative stress markers and lipid profiles may be observed within a few weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
Can I use Grape Seed Extract for weight loss?
While GSE may aid in overall health improvement, it should not be viewed as a standalone solution for weight loss and should complement a balanced diet and exercise.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34107109/ – This systematic review assessed GSE's impact on oxidative stress markers and found significant reductions in malondialdehyde and hs-CRP levels, highlighting GSE's potential role in antioxidant defense.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7696942/ – A comprehensive meta-analysis involving 50 trials indicated that GSE significantly lowers fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, suggesting beneficial effects for metabolic health.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijcp.14469 – This review examined evidence supporting the use of grape seed and skin extracts in diabetes and cardiovascular health, providing moderate quality findings based on literature reviews.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31880030/ – This study investigated the effects of GSE on lipid profiles and inflammation, reinforcing its beneficial properties for cardiovascular health.
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/grape-seed-extract – The NCCIH discusses the safety and efficacy of grape seed extract, outlining potential health benefits and recommending further research to fully elucidate these properties.
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