What is OPC?
OPC grape seed extract, also known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins, is a powerful antioxidant derived from the seeds of grapes. OPCs belong to the group of polyphenols and are widely recognised for their health benefits. These substances were first isolated in the 1940s by the French scientist Jack Masquelier and have been intensively researched ever since.
Grape seed extract contains a high concentration of proanthocyanidins, which are recognised as particularly effective antioxidants. Antioxidants are important because they can neutralise free radicals produced by oxidative processes in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to ageing and various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
One of the main benefits of OPC grape seed extract is its positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that OPCs can help to lower blood pressure, improve the flexibility of blood vessels and promote blood circulation. In addition, they help to reduce LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and prevent the oxidation of this cholesterol, which is a key factor in the development of arteriosclerosis.
OPC grape seed extract is also valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is linked to many health problems, including arthritis, allergies and chronic skin conditions. By reducing inflammation, OPC grape seed extract can help alleviate these conditions.
In addition, OPC grape seed extract is often used in skincare products as it protects the skin from UV rays, supports collagen production and improves skin elasticity. This can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and give the skin a more youthful appearance.
How is OPC produced?
The production of OPC grape seed extract involves several careful steps to extract and concentrate the valuable oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) from the grape seeds. The process begins with the collection of grape seeds, which are a by-product of wine production.
1. cleaning and drying: The collected grape seeds are cleaned to remove impurities and then dried to reduce the water content. This step is crucial to increase the shelf life of the material and improve the efficiency of the extraction.
2. grinding: The dried grape seeds are ground into a fine powder. This increases the surface area and facilitates the extraction of the OPCs.
3. extraction: The ground grape seed powder is exposed to a solvent (often a mixture of water and ethanol) which dissolves out the proanthocyanidins. This extraction is often carried out under controlled temperatures and pressures to maximise the potency of the OPCs.
4. filtration and concentration: After extraction, the solution is filtered to remove solid particles. The filtered solution is then concentrated, usually by evaporation of the solvent, to increase the content of OPCs.
5. drying and pulverisation: The concentrated extract is dried, often by spray drying or freeze drying, to obtain a fine powder. This powder contains a high proportion of OPCs and can be further processed into various dosage forms, such as capsules, tablets or as an ingredient in food supplements.
This production process ensures that the bioactive properties of OPCs are preserved, thereby maintaining the health benefits of the grape seed extract.
What effects does OPC have in the body?
OPC grape seed extract works in the body mainly through its strong antioxidant properties. Here are the main mechanisms and effects of OPCs in the body:
1. neutralisation of free radicals: OPCs are potent antioxidants that neutralise free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells by triggering oxidative processes. This damage is associated with ageing and many diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative diseases. OPCs reduce oxidative stress and protect cells from this damage.
2. cardiovascular protection: OPCs improve the health of the cardiovascular system in several ways. They support the flexibility of blood vessels and improve blood flow, which can lower blood pressure. They also prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, an important factor in the development of arteriosclerosis. By inhibiting the formation of plaques in the arteries, OPCs contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
3. anti-inflammatory: OPCs have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is associated with many health problems, including arthritis, allergies and skin conditions. OPCs can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, helping to alleviate inflammatory processes in the body.
4. support skin health: OPCs promote skin health by supporting collagen production and improving skin elasticity. They offer protection against UV radiation, reduce the formation of wrinkles and fine lines and promote a more youthful skin appearance. This makes OPCs a popular ingredient in skincare products.
5. improving immune function: OPCs can boost the immune system through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. A strong immune system is crucial for defence against infections and maintaining general health.
6. neuroprotective effects: There is evidence that OPCs may protect the brain from oxidative stress and support cognitive function. This could contribute to the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
What are the side effects and contraindications?
OPC grape seed extract is generally very well tolerated and is taken by most people without any significant side effects. Nevertheless, there are some possible side effects and contraindications that should be taken into account:
Possible side effects
1. gastrointestinal complaints: In rare cases, some people may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, stomach cramps or diarrhoea. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary.
2. allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to grape seed extract. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rashes, itching or breathing difficulties. If such symptoms occur, use should be discontinued immediately and a doctor consulted.
3. headaches: Some users report headaches after taking OPC. These are usually mild and disappear on their own.
Contraindications
1. blood clotting disorders: People with blood clotting disorders or those taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) should consult their doctor before taking OPC grape seed extract. OPC can affect blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
2. pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is limited information on the safety of OPC during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking OPC as a precaution or consult their doctor beforehand.
3. drug interactions: OPC may interact with certain medications, especially those that affect liver function or are metabolised via the liver. It is advisable to consult a doctor before taking OPCs if you regularly take medication.
What distinguishes OPC grape seed extract from other active ingredients?
OPC grape seed extract, also known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins, is a remarkable active ingredient with unique properties that set it apart from other bioactive substances. Here are some detailed aspects that make OPCs stand out:
Strong antioxidant capacity
OPCs are characterised by their exceptionally strong antioxidant effect. They are particularly effective at neutralising free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause cell damage. While many antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E also fight free radicals, OPCs are significantly more potent. Studies show that OPCs can be up to 20 times stronger than vitamin C and 50 times stronger than vitamin E in their antioxidant capacity. This outstanding ability makes OPCs particularly valuable in protecting against oxidative stress and associated diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Wide range of health benefits
While many active ingredients offer specific health benefits, the spectrum of positive effects of OPCs is broad:
1. cardiovascular health: OPCs have significant benefits for the cardiovascular system. They improve the flexibility and function of blood vessels, promote blood circulation and can lower blood pressure. An important mechanism is the inhibition of the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which contributes to the prevention of arteriosclerosis. These comprehensive cardiovascular benefits are not present to the same extent with many other antioxidants.
2. anti-inflammatory: OPCs have strong anti-inflammatory properties. They can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines, making them useful in the treatment and prevention of inflammation-related diseases. This includes conditions such as arthritis, allergies and inflammatory skin conditions. Other antioxidants do not always show the same anti-inflammatory effectiveness.
3. skin health: OPCs are particularly valuable in skin care. They promote collagen production, improve skin elasticity and offer protection against UV radiation. These properties contribute to the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines and support a more youthful skin appearance. Whilst vitamins C and E are also used in skincare, the synergistic effects of OPCs on the skin are often more pronounced.
Synergistic effects
An outstanding aspect of OPCs is their ability to act synergistically with other antioxidants. For example, they can regenerate and prolong the antioxidant activity of vitamin C, potentiating its health benefits. This synergy makes OPCs particularly effective in combination with other nutrients and enhances their effect, which is not the case with many other individual substances.
High bioavailability
Bioavailability, i.e. the body's ability to absorb and utilise a substance, is another important factor that distinguishes OPCs from other active ingredients. OPCs have a high bioavailability, which means that they are efficiently absorbed and distributed in the body. This is crucial to their effectiveness and makes them a favoured choice among antioxidants.
Safety and tolerability
OPC grape seed extract is generally very well tolerated and is taken by most people without any significant side effects. Occasional mild gastrointestinal complaints or headaches are rare and usually temporary. This good tolerance contrasts with some other dietary supplements, which can cause more frequent side effects.
Sustainability and naturalness
OPCs are extracted from the seeds of grapes, a natural by-product of wine production. This makes them a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice compared to synthetically produced antioxidants. The natural origin and sustainable extraction contribute to the popularity of OPCs as a health and beauty product.
Wide range of applications
OPC grape seed extract has a wide range of possible applications. In addition to dietary supplements, OPCs are also used in skin care products, functional foods and beverages. Their extensive health benefits and ability to remain stable in various formulations make them a versatile and sought-after ingredient in the health and beauty industry.
How can OPC grape seed extract be combined effectively?
OPC grape seed extract (oligomeric proanthocyanidins) can be combined with various other active ingredients to achieve synergistic health benefits. Here are three important active ingredients that harmonise well with OPC: Vitamin D, glutathione and turmeric.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for many functions in the body, particularly bone health, the immune system and the regulation of calcium and phosphate metabolism. The combination of OPC and vitamin D offers several synergistic benefits:
1. improved immune function: both substances strengthen the immune system. While vitamin D promotes the production and activity of immune cells, OPC protects these cells from oxidative stress. Together they can support the body's defences more effectively.
2. bone health: Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. OPCs can help maintain bone density through their antioxidant properties and minimise the negative effects of free radicals on bone tissue.
3. anti-inflammatory: Both substances have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin D regulates the immune system and reduces chronic inflammation, while OPCs inhibit pro-inflammatory molecules. Together they can combat inflammatory diseases more effectively.
Glutathione
Glutathione is a powerful endogenous antioxidant that plays a central role in cell protection, detoxification and immune function. The combination of OPC and glutathione can significantly increase the body's antioxidant capacity:
1. Increased antioxidant activity: OPCs and glutathione work synergistically to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. OPCs can support the synthesis of glutathione in the body, increasing antioxidant defence.
2. detoxification: Glutathione is significantly involved in the detoxification of harmful substances in the liver. By supporting glutathione synthesis, OPC can promote the body's detoxification processes and thus improve the health of the liver and the entire organism.
3. immune support: Glutathione strengthens the immune system by improving the function of immune cells. In combination with the immune-boosting properties of OPCs, this can lead to optimised immune defence.
Curcuma
Curcuma, especially its active component curcumin, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The combination of OPC and curcuma offers numerous health benefits:
1. powerful anti-inflammatory: curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that inhibits the activity of enzymes that promote inflammation. Together with the anti-inflammatory properties of OPCs, this combination can effectively reduce chronic inflammation and alleviate conditions such as arthritis.
2. antioxidant synergy: Both curcumin and OPCs are potent antioxidants. Their combined effect can significantly reduce oxidative stress and promote cellular health. This antioxidant synergy may protect against chronic disease and improve overall health.
3. promotion of brain health: Curcumin has neuroprotective properties and can support cognitive function. Combined with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of OPCs, this combination may protect the brain from degenerative processes and promote mental health.
Is it good to take OPCs with food?
It is possible to absorb OPCs through food, but there are a few hurdles that can sometimes make this difficult. Firstly, the concentration of OPCs in natural foods is often lower compared to supplements. For example, one would need to consume a considerable amount of grape seeds or other OPC-rich foods to ingest a significant amount of OPC comparable to the dosage in supplements.
In addition, the bioavailability of OPCs from natural sources can vary and depend on various factors such as the type of food preparation and individual metabolism. Some foods containing OPCs, such as grape seed extract, may not be consumed regularly in sufficient quantities to ensure a consistent intake of OPCs.
In addition, personal dietary preferences and restrictions can affect dietary OPC intake. For example, some people do not like foods rich in OPCs or have certain dietary restrictions that make it difficult to consume OPCs in sufficient quantities.
For these reasons, many people may choose to take OPCs in supplement form, as they provide a concentrated and readily available source of these compounds. Nevertheless, it is important to point out that a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and other OPC-containing foods is still the best source of most nutrients, including OPCs.
