What to remember:
- Grape seeds are a concentrated source of polyphenols, mainly oligoproanthocyanidins, powerful antioxidants.
- Oligoproanthocyanidin plays a protective role in cells and tissues by trapping free radicals.
- Their richness in essential fatty acids gives them a hypocholesterolemic power, that is to say which reduces the blood cholesterol level in order to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
What is grape seed?
Origin of the grape seed
Of plant origin, grapes are a widely consumed fruit worldwide and there are many categories depending on their use (wine grapes, raisins, seedless grapes, etc.). Generally considered waste when enjoying this delicious fruit, grape seeds contain beneficial active compounds that help improve our overall well-being.
Composition of grape seeds
Although grapes are a fruit rich in essential nutrients, their seed extract is even more powerful. It contains essential fatty acids, including omega-6, numerous minerals (zinc and magnesium), and vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties.
However, it is for its richness in polyphenols, particularly oligoproanthocyanidins, that grape seed is used as a functional ingredient. This active compound is a powerful antioxidant that can treat various health problems by stimulating the body's natural biological processes.
What are the benefits of grape seeds?
Grape seeds, commonly overlooked, actually contain a wealth of health-promoting compounds.
Grape seed and antioxidant properties
Grape seeds are a concentrated source of polyphenols , mainly oligoproanthocyanidins, which are powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are a group 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 bodies need antioxidants, such as oligoproanthocyanidins, which visibly limit cell degeneration and aging. Thus, oligoproanthocyanidins and vitamin E, naturally present in these seeds, play a protective role in cells and tissues. These essential micronutrients protect the skin from aggressions and restore its natural glow.
Grape Seed and Cholesterol
Grape seed is rich in essential fatty acids , including linoleic acid from the omega-6 family. It helps regulate total blood cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “ 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 blood pressure regulation . These cumulative effects can help prevent the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases , in addition to dietary measures, including arteriosclerosis, which is 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 numerous health benefits, grape seeds are also used in the formulation of dietary supplements. You can then 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
When taken as directed, grape seed extract does not cause any unwanted side effects. However, in high doses, it can cause nausea and stomach upset.
Grape seed extract is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age and pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is also contraindicated for people allergic to grapes. People taking blood thinning medication or treatment for high blood pressure should also be cautious, as grape seeds lower blood pressure. If you are taking any medical treatment, it is important to consult your doctor before supplementing.
Bring grape seeds to your body with DIJO
At DIJO, we are committed to supporting you in your wellness skincare routines. That's why we developed Radiant Skin , a product based on prebiotics and compounds essential for maintaining the skin's beauty .
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 it's to improve skin hydration, reduce imperfections, reduce the first signs of aging or strengthen joint mobility, this treatment offers you a natural approach to 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.
