Anti Aging Benefits of Grape Seed Extract

Ever wonder why the French are as healthy as horses despite the fact that their cuisine is rich in fat and sugar? This medical mystery is called the "French Paradox" which brought about research into the reason why the French have very low rates of heart disease. Scientists believed the answer can be found in their favorite beverage, the red wine.

Wine is made from grapes, which are a rich source of antioxidants. Further research revealed that the oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) in the red wine promotes cardiovascular health. Grape seed extract, in particular, contain the richest sources of OPCs, making it one of the most powerful antioxidants available.

Grape seed extract is rich in polyphenols, a compound that is high in antioxidants which help protect cells from free radical damage and also promote healthy blood circulation. Compared with Vitamins C, E and A (beta-carotene), it stays longer in the body for as long as 3 full days, is 20 times more potent than Vitamin C, and can be 50 times more effective than Vitamin E.

Listed below are some of the anti aging and health benefits of grape seed extract:
* one of the most powerful antioxidants that fights free radicals and slows down the aging process
* 20 times more potent than Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and 50 times stronger than Vitamin E (alpha-tocopheryl acetate)
* helps improve cardiovascular health
* helps promote brain, skin, and eye health
* anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory
* one of the few antioxidants that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier to help protect the brain and nerve tissue
* prevents formation of plaque in arteries
* improves mental alertness and help prevent senility

However, grape seed extract use is not recommended for those allergic to grapes. It can also cause excessive bleeding for individuals taking blood thinners. Minor side effects would include dizziness, nausea, and it may interfere with cholesterol lowering drugs.

There is no established recommended daily amount for grape seed extract, but most research doses range from 50 mg to 200 mg per day. Debasis Bagchi, a leading grape seed extract researcher, recommends a daily dose of 50 mg for ages 30 to 40 years, 100 mg for ages 40 to 50 years, and 200 mg for adults older than 50 years. So far, there were no recommendations for children and teens.

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