Red Grape Pomace Extract
Also known as: Red grape pomace extract, Grape seed and skin extract, Wine pomace extract, Vitis vinifera pomace extract
Overview
Red grape pomace extract is a polyphenol-rich dietary supplement derived from the solid remains (skins, seeds, and stems) of *Vitis vinifera* grapes after juice or wine production. This byproduct is a valuable source of dietary fiber and potent antioxidants, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins. Its primary applications are centered around supporting cardiovascular health, leveraging its significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and its potential role in mitigating atherosclerosis. The extract is characterized by its high antioxidant capacity and its ability to modulate inflammatory responses. While research is ongoing, current evidence, including animal studies and human meta-analyses, suggests its efficacy in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. It is increasingly recognized as a functional food ingredient due to its beneficial health properties.
Benefits
Red grape pomace extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich polyphenol content. A significant benefit, supported by a 2019 animal study, is its potential to reduce atherosclerotic plaque size and myocardial infarction incidence, while also improving survival in models of ischemic heart disease. This study also noted a modulation of inflammatory cytokines (decreasing TNF-α and increasing IL-10) and enhanced plasma antioxidant activity. Furthermore, a 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis highlighted that grape products, including pomace extracts, significantly reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in humans, indicating systemic anti-inflammatory benefits. While less consistent, some studies suggest improvements in lipid profiles and endothelial function. Individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease may benefit most, though more human data are needed. The animal study showed substantial reductions in disease progression, and human meta-analysis confirmed statistically significant reductions in inflammatory biomarkers.
How it works
Red grape pomace extract exerts its effects primarily through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its polyphenols, such as flavonoids and anthocyanins, directly neutralize reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing oxidative stress. On an inflammatory level, these compounds modulate the production of inflammatory cytokines, for instance, by decreasing pro-inflammatory TNF-α and increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10. The extract's dietary fiber content may also contribute to improved lipid metabolism. At a molecular level, it is believed to inhibit pathways like NF-κB, a key regulator of inflammatory responses, and to scavenge free radicals. It may also modulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), contributing to improved endothelial function. The moderate bioavailability of its polyphenols is influenced by gut microbiota metabolism.
Side effects
Red grape pomace extract is generally considered safe, with no major adverse effects consistently reported in clinical studies. Common side effects (>5% frequency) have not been observed. Uncommon side effects (1-5% frequency) may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, likely attributable to its dietary fiber content. Rare side effects (<1% frequency) or serious adverse events have not been documented. Regarding drug interactions, there is a potential for mild interaction with anticoagulants (blood thinners) due to the polyphenols' effects on platelet aggregation, though evidence for this is limited. Therefore, caution is advised for individuals on blood-thinning medications. Contraindications are not formally established, but individuals on anticoagulants should consult a healthcare provider. Data on its safety in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating women and children, are limited, and its use in these groups should be approached with caution.
Dosage
The optimal dosage for red grape pomace extract is not yet definitively established, as human studies show wide variability. Animal studies have used high concentrations, such as 20% red wine grape pomace flour in the diet. In human trials, grape polyphenol doses typically range from 200 mg to 1000 mg per day, expressed as polyphenol equivalents. However, specific dosing for pomace extract, which contains a broader spectrum of compounds than just polyphenols, is less standardized. A maximum safe dose has not been well-defined, but high fiber intake could potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. For chronic effects, daily supplementation is recommended. The extract is available in various forms, including powdered flour, capsules, or extracts standardized for their polyphenol content. Co-administration with food may enhance the absorption of its polyphenols. No specific cofactors are required to optimize its efficacy.
FAQs
Is red grape pomace extract safe for long-term use?
Current evidence suggests it is safe for long-term use, with no major adverse effects reported in studies lasting several months. However, long-term human data are still emerging.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Animal studies show effects within 1-2 weeks. In humans, measurable changes in biomarkers may take weeks to months, depending on the specific benefit being observed.
Does it interact with medications?
There's a potential for mild interaction with blood thinners due to its polyphenol content. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you are on any medications, especially anticoagulants.
Is it better than grape seed extract?
Red grape pomace extract contains components from both seeds and skins, offering a broader profile of polyphenols. Comparative efficacy data between the two are limited, so 'better' depends on the specific health goal.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6770693/ – This animal study investigated the effects of red wine grape pomace (RWGP) flour in a mouse model of ischemic heart disease. It found that RWGP supplementation significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque size, decreased myocardial infarction incidence, and improved survival. The study also noted modulated inflammatory cytokines and increased plasma antioxidant activity, suggesting a protective role against cardiovascular damage.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2024/5086541 – This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized findings from multiple human randomized controlled trials on grape products. It concluded that grape products, including pomace extracts, significantly reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in humans. This suggests a systemic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefit, supporting their potential role in managing chronic inflammatory conditions.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33171832/ – This systematic review explored the valorization of grape pomace, highlighting its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It discusses the various applications of grape pomace in functional foods and nutraceuticals, primarily based on preclinical and in vitro studies, supporting its overall health-promoting potential.
Supplements Containing Red Grape Pomace Extract
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