What you must remember :
- Grape seeds are a concentrated source of polyphenols, mainly oligoproanthocyanidins, powerful antioxidants.
- Oligoproanthocyanidin provides a protective role for cells and tissues by trapping free radicals.
- Their richness in essential fatty acids gives them hypocholesterolemic power, that is to say, they reduce blood cholesterol levels in order to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
What is grape seed?
Origin of the grape seed
Of plant origin, grapes are a fruit widely consumed throughout the world and there are many categories depending on their use (wine grapes, raisins, seedless grapes, etc.). Typically considered waste when enjoying this delicious fruit, grape seeds contain beneficial active compounds that help improve our overall well-being.
Composition of grape seed
Although grapes are a fruit rich in essential nutrients, the extract from its seeds is even more powerful. Indeed, it contains essential fatty acids, notably omega-6, numerous minerals (zinc and magnesium) and vitamin E, known for its anti-oxidant properties.
Nevertheless, it is for its richness in polyphenols, in particular in oligoproanthocyanidins, that grape seed is used as a functional ingredient. This active compound is a powerful anti-oxidant that can treat various health conditions by stimulating the body's natural biological processes.
What are the benefits of grape seed
Grape seeds, commonly overlooked, actually have a wealth of health-promoting compounds.
Grape seed and anti-oxidant properties
Grape seeds are a concentrated source of polyphenols , mainly oligoproanthocyanidins, powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants represent a set of neutral molecules capable of protecting cells against oxidative stress . Oxidative stress is the set of attacks caused by free radicals, unstable molecules derived from oxygen, to the cells of our body. These free radicals, from various sources such as pollution, stress and an unbalanced diet, can damage our cells and contribute to the aging process.
To neutralize free radicals, our body needs antioxidants, such as the oligo proanthocyanidin which visibly limits the degeneration and aging of cells. Thus, the oligo proanthocyanidin and vitamin E, naturally present in these seeds, provide a protective role for cells and tissues. These essential micronutrients protect the skin from damage and restore its natural glow.
Grapeseed and cholesterol
Grape seed is rich in essential fatty acids , particularly linoleic acid from the omega-6 family. It helps regulate total blood cholesterol , particularly low-density lipoproteins (LDL), also called “ bad cholesterol ”. Indeed, LDL cholesterol is responsible for the formation of arteriosclerosis. Thus, the linoleic acid contained in grape seed extract can help reduce inflammation, help regulate bad cholesterol levels and support the regulation of blood pressure . These cumulative effects can help prevent the risks of developing cardiovascular diseases , in addition to dietary measures, notably arteriosclerosis which corresponds to the hardening of the arteries, and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
How to consume grape seeds?
Grape seeds can be consumed in different forms.
There is an oil extracted from grape seeds, rich in essential omega-6 fatty acids. This cooking oil, with a rather mild flavor, is ideal for all types of cooking, even at high temperatures, and can also be consumed cold to enhance your salads.
Due to their many health benefits, grape seeds are also used in the formulation of dietary supplements. You will then be able to benefit from the virtues of grape seeds in the form of concentrated polyphenol extracts, to ensure better absorption and optimal effectiveness.
Indications and dosage of grape seed
If the dosage is respected, grape seed extract does not cause any unwanted side effects. However, in high doses, it can cause nausea and stomach aches.
Taking grape seed extract is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age and pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is also common in people allergic to grapes. People who are taking blood thinners or treatment for high blood pressure should also be careful because grape seeds lower blood pressure. If you are taking medical treatment, it is important to seek advice from your doctor before taking supplements.
Bring grape seeds to your body thanks to DIJO
At DIJO, we are committed to supporting you in your well-being care routines. This is why we developed Focus Peau , a product based on prebiotics and compounds essential for maintaining the beauty of the skin .
In this product, you will find a grape seed extract enriched with 95% oligoproanthocyanidins (OPC) which acts on the functions of protection against oxidative stress and support of your skin .
Whether to improve skin hydration, reduce imperfections, reduce the first signs of aging or strengthen joint mobility, this treatment offers you a natural approach for your overall well-being.
Sources :
[1] Perumalla, AVS, & Hettiarachchy, NS (2011). Green tea and grape seed extracts—Potential applications in food safety and quality. Food Research International , 44 (4), 827-839.
[2] Gupta, M., Dey, S., Marbaniang, D., Pal, P., Ray, S., & Mazumder, B. (2020). Grape seed extract: Having a potential health benefits. Journal of food science and technology , 57 , 1205-1215.
[3] Kim, SY, Jeong, SM, Park, WP, Nam, KC, Ahn, DU, & Lee, SC (2006). Effect of heating conditions of grape seeds on the antioxidant activity of grape seed extracts. Food chemistry , 97 (3), 472-479.
[4] Rasmussen, SE, Frederiksen, H., Struntze Krogholm, K., & Poulsen, L. (2005). Dietary proanthocyanidins: occurrence, dietary intake, bioavailability, and protection against cardiovascular disease. Molecular nutrition & food research , 49 (2), 159-174.
