Exgrape Total
Also known as: exGrape Total, red grape polyphenol extract, grape anthocyanin extract, grape seed extract, grape skin extract, Vitis vinifera extract
Overview
exGrape Total is a standardized extract derived from Vitis vinifera (red grape) polyphenols, primarily titrated for anthocyanins and other flavonoids. It is obtained from red grape skins and seeds, which are rich in these compounds responsible for the red/purple color of grapes. This supplement is primarily used for its potent antioxidant properties, aiming to reduce oxidative stress, support cardiovascular health, and modulate immune function. It also shows potential in improving metabolic parameters like insulin resistance. The extract's key characteristics include its high concentration of anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins, which contribute to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. While specific research on the branded exGrape Total is moderate, its benefits are supported by extensive research on similar grape polyphenol and grape seed extracts.
Benefits
exGrape Total, through its rich polyphenol content, offers several evidence-based benefits. Its primary effect is potent antioxidant activity, countering oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which are key factors in chronic diseases. Studies on grape polyphenols show they increase plasma antioxidant capacity and reduce markers of oxidative damage. For cardiovascular health, similar grape seed extracts have demonstrated modest but statistically significant reductions in blood pressure (3-5 mmHg) and improvements in blood lipid profiles (LDL cholesterol, triglycerides) in randomized controlled trials, which are clinically relevant for reducing cardiovascular risk. Animal studies suggest exGrape Total may improve insulin resistance and modulate gut microbiota, contributing to better metabolic health. Secondary benefits include immune modulation, where phenolic compounds may regulate immune responses and reduce allergic inflammation, as observed in murine models. Grape seed extracts also promote wound healing by enhancing collagen formation. These benefits are particularly relevant for populations with metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and inflammatory conditions. Antioxidant and metabolic effects typically manifest after weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
How it works
The polyphenols in exGrape Total exert their effects primarily through antioxidant mechanisms. They scavenge free radicals and chelate metal ions, thereby reducing oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA within the body. Beyond direct antioxidant action, these compounds interact with various body systems. They modulate inflammatory pathways, contributing to reduced inflammation. They also improve endothelial function, which is crucial for cardiovascular health, and influence the composition of the gut microbiota, impacting metabolic health. At a molecular level, grape polyphenols can inhibit phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) in mast cells, which helps reduce allergic inflammation, and protect lipid membranes from oxidation, thereby sparing endogenous antioxidants like vitamin E. Anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins have moderate bioavailability, with their metabolites circulating systemically to exert these biological effects.
Side effects
exGrape Total is generally well tolerated when taken orally. The most common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, stomach ache, and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of individuals, include general weakness and potential allergic reactions. Rarely, less than 1% of users may experience a mild increase in bleeding risk due to the extract's slight anticoagulant effects. This supplement may interact with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants like warfarin and aspirin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. It may also affect the liver metabolism of some drugs. Contraindications include caution for individuals on blood thinners. There is insufficient safety data regarding its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is not recommended for these populations. Individuals with chronic diseases or those taking multiple medications should consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
Dosage
While a minimum effective dose for exGrape Total is not specifically standardized, research on similar grape seed extracts typically uses 100–300 mg/day of proanthocyanidins. Based on the broader grape polyphenol literature, an optimal dosage range for exGrape Total for cardiovascular and antioxidant effects is generally considered to be 150–300 mg/day of the standardized extract. Doses up to 600 mg/day of grape seed extract have been used safely in clinical trials, suggesting this as a potential maximum safe dose. The supplement can be taken with meals to potentially improve absorption. It is typically available in standardized capsules or powders, titrated for their anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin content. The bioavailability of these compounds can be enhanced by co-ingestion with fats. While not strictly required, cofactors like Vitamin C and E may synergize the antioxidant effects of exGrape Total.
FAQs
Is exGrape Total safe for daily use?
Yes, exGrape Total is generally considered safe for daily use, with most side effects being mild gastrointestinal issues. However, if you are on blood thinners or have chronic health conditions, consult your doctor.
How long does it take to see benefits from exGrape Total?
Antioxidant and cardiovascular benefits from exGrape Total typically become noticeable after several weeks to a few months of consistent daily supplementation.
Can exGrape Total replace my prescribed medications?
No, exGrape Total is a dietary supplement and should not be used as a replacement for any prescribed medications or treatments. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication regimen.
Does exGrape Total cause allergic reactions?
Allergic reactions to exGrape Total are rare, but possible. Monitor for any signs of hypersensitivity, such as rash or itching, and discontinue use if they occur.
Is exGrape Total effective for weight loss?
While exGrape Total may improve metabolic markers and gut health, which can indirectly support overall wellness, there is limited direct evidence to suggest it is a primary agent for weight loss.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7054588/ – This animal randomized controlled trial investigated the wound healing properties of grape seed extract in rats. The study found that grape seed extract significantly accelerated wound contraction and increased hydroxyproline content, indicating enhanced collagen formation, compared to control groups. The findings suggest a potential role for grape seed extract in promoting tissue repair, though the study was limited by its animal model and small sample size.
- https://www.alsiano.com/news/grape-olive-extracts-immune-health/ – This source references in vitro and murine studies by Je et al. (2015) and Jin et al. (2018), which demonstrated that grape seed proanthocyanidins can modulate immune responses and gut microbiota. These preclinical studies indicated a potential for reducing allergic inflammation and improving metabolic dysfunction. While providing good mechanistic insight, these findings are from preclinical models and require human validation.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263332 – This article summarizes meta-analyses on grape seed extract, highlighting several randomized controlled trials that show statistically significant, albeit modest, reductions in blood pressure and LDL cholesterol with supplementation. These effects are considered clinically relevant for cardiovascular risk reduction. The summary notes heterogeneity in extract standardization as a limitation but underscores the high quality of evidence for cardiovascular endpoints.
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/grape-seed-extract – This source from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health provides a general overview of grape seed extract, discussing its uses, potential benefits, and safety. It often emphasizes the need for more rigorous human clinical trials to confirm many of the purported benefits and provides a balanced perspective on the current state of research.
- https://www.knowde.com/stores/breko-gmbh/products/exgrape-anthocyanins-grape-extract-red – This commercial product page for exGrape Anthocyanins (a related product to exGrape Total) from Breko GmbH describes its composition and intended uses. It highlights the extract's richness in anthocyanins and its application as an antioxidant and for general health benefits, often citing general research on grape polyphenols to support its claims.