Vitaflavan
Also known as: Vitaflavan, Grape Seed Extract, GSE, Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins, Vitis vinifera seed extract
Overview
Vitaflavan is a branded grape seed extract (GSE) product derived from the seeds of *Vitis vinifera*, the common grapevine. It is primarily standardized for its high content of polyphenols, particularly proanthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants. As a botanical dietary supplement, Vitaflavan is utilized for its potential to support cardiovascular health, provide robust antioxidant protection, and reduce inflammation. Research on grape seed extracts is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses consistently demonstrating its benefits, especially concerning cardiovascular outcomes and oxidative stress reduction. It is recognized for its rich flavonoid and polyphenol composition, contributing to its therapeutic properties.
Benefits
Vitaflavan, as a grape seed extract, offers several evidence-based benefits. Meta-analyses indicate that grape polyphenols can modestly but significantly reduce systolic blood pressure by approximately 2-3 mmHg and diastolic pressure by about 1-2 mmHg, which is considered clinically relevant for mitigating cardiovascular risk. Supplementation with GSE significantly decreases oxidative stress biomarkers such as malondialdehyde and oxidized LDL, demonstrating an improved redox balance within the body. Furthermore, GSE has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), suggesting notable anti-inflammatory effects. Some research also points to improvements in cholesterol and triglyceride levels, further contributing to overall cardiovascular health. These benefits typically manifest after several weeks of consistent supplementation, usually within 4-12 weeks, and are often dose-dependent.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Vitaflavan involves its potent antioxidant activity. The polyphenols, particularly proanthocyanidins, within the extract effectively scavenge free radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation, thereby protecting cells from oxidative damage. Grape seed extract also modulates endothelial function by enhancing the bioavailability of nitric oxide, which leads to improved flow-mediated dilation and reduced vascular inflammation. Additionally, these polyphenols inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative damage to essential lipids and proteins. The absorption of grape polyphenols is moderate, with bioavailability influenced by gut microbiota metabolism and subsequent conjugation processes in the liver.
Side effects
Grape seed extract supplements, including Vitaflavan, are generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or stomach upset. High-quality clinical trials have not consistently reported significant drug interactions or contraindications. However, individuals on anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) or antihypertensive drugs should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional, as GSE may theoretically enhance their effects, although this is not widely documented as a major interaction. Data on special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children, are limited, so caution is advised for these groups. Long-term safety data at very high doses are also less established.
Dosage
Effective doses of grape seed extract in clinical trials typically range from 100 mg to 300 mg of polyphenols daily. Optimal cardiovascular and antioxidant effects have been consistently observed with dosages between 200-300 mg per day. There is no clear evidence that higher doses provide additional benefits, and the long-term safety profile at very high dosages is not as well-established. The timing of supplementation is flexible, as absorption does not appear to be significantly affected by food intake. It is generally recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines or consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate dosage for individual needs and health conditions.
FAQs
Is Vitaflavan effective for blood pressure?
Yes, evidence from meta-analyses supports modest but statistically significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with consistent supplementation.
How long until benefits appear?
Benefits, particularly for cardiovascular markers and oxidative stress, typically become noticeable within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation.
Is it safe long-term?
Current evidence suggests good safety for up to several months of use. However, long-term data extending beyond this period are more limited.
Does it interact with medications?
No major drug interactions have been consistently reported. However, caution is advised if you are taking anticoagulants or antihypertensive medications, and consultation with a doctor is recommended.
Research Sources
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0137665 – This meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials found that grape polyphenols significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by approximately 2.5 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by about 1.5 mmHg in adults. The study highlighted the clinical relevance of these modest reductions for cardiovascular risk, despite moderate heterogeneity among trials.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7971097/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in oxidative stress markers with grape polyphenol consumption across various populations. The findings support the role of grape seed extract in improving redox balance, although heterogeneity in doses and populations was noted.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijcp.14469 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs concluded that grape seed extract significantly reduced malondialdehyde, oxidized LDL, and hs-CRP in adults with metabolic or cardiovascular risk factors. The study provided comprehensive biomarker analysis, despite some included studies having small sample sizes and variable quality.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34798267/ – This meta-analysis of controlled trials indicated that grape seed extract improved flow-mediated dilation and reduced blood pressure and heart rate in a dose-dependent manner in adults with cardiovascular risk factors. The research highlighted the ingredient's positive impact on endothelial function, though it noted limited long-term data.