Vitis vinifera seed extract
Also known as: Grape seed extract, GSE, Vitis vinifera seed extract
Overview
Grape seed extract (GSE) is a dietary supplement derived from the seeds of Vitis vinifera, the common grapevine. It is highly valued for its rich content of polyphenols, particularly proanthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants. GSE is primarily utilized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular health benefits. Research indicates its potential to improve glycemic control, lipid profiles, and reduce inflammation markers. While the research maturity level is moderate with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses available, the quality of evidence is generally good, including well-designed randomized controlled trials. It is available in various forms, most commonly capsules or tablets, and is a popular choice for individuals seeking natural support for metabolic and cardiovascular health.
Benefits
Grape seed extract (GSE) offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich polyphenol content. A meta-analysis demonstrated that GSE significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose (FPG) by -2.01 mg/dL (95% CI: -3.14, -0.86), indicating its potential role in glycemic control. It also showed significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC), LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, making it beneficial for improving lipid profiles, particularly in individuals with dyslipidemia or at risk of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, GSE has been shown to reduce C-reactive protein (CRP) levels by -0.81 mg/L (95% CI: -1.25, -0.38), highlighting its anti-inflammatory properties. While some evidence suggests benefits for blood pressure and flow-mediated dilation, results are mixed, indicating a need for further research in these areas. The benefits are typically observed within several weeks to months of consistent supplementation. It's important to note that GSE does not significantly affect HbA1c or HDL cholesterol levels.
How it works
Grape seed extract (GSE) exerts its beneficial effects primarily through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to its high concentration of polyphenols, especially proanthocyanidins. These compounds scavenge free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. By mitigating oxidative damage and inflammation, GSE influences various biological pathways involved in cardiovascular health. It helps improve lipid profiles by potentially modulating cholesterol synthesis and metabolism, and reduces systemic inflammation, as evidenced by decreased C-reactive protein levels. The polyphenols in GSE interact with various molecular targets, contributing to its protective effects on blood vessels and overall metabolic function. Its moderate bioavailability allows these active compounds to be absorbed and distributed to exert their effects.
Side effects
Grape seed extract (GSE) is generally considered safe when used as directed. The most common side effect reported is gastrointestinal upset, which may include nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea. This typically occurs in a small percentage of users and can often be mitigated by taking GSE with meals. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include allergic reactions, such as itching or rash, though these are not widespread. Rare but severe allergic reactions are possible but highly infrequent. GSE has potential drug interactions, particularly with blood thinners (anticoagulants) due to its mild antiplatelet effects, which could increase the risk of bleeding. It may also interact with medications for diabetes, potentially lowering blood sugar levels and requiring dose adjustments. Contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data in these populations. Caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders or those already taking anticoagulant medications. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting GSE, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for grape seed extract (GSE) is typically around 100-200 mg per day. For optimal benefits, a dosage range of 200-400 mg per day is generally recommended. The maximum safe dose is considered to be up to 1,000 mg per day, although higher doses are not necessarily associated with increased benefits and may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. It is best to take GSE with meals to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal upset and potentially enhance absorption. GSE is commonly available in capsule or tablet forms. While no specific cofactors are required, bioavailability may be slightly enhanced when taken with fatty meals. Consistency in daily intake is key to observing the desired improvements in lipid profiles and inflammation markers over several weeks to months.
FAQs
Is grape seed extract safe to take with other medications?
Grape seed extract is generally safe, but it may interact with blood thinners and diabetes medications. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining it with other drugs to avoid adverse effects.
When is the best time to take grape seed extract?
It is best to take grape seed extract with meals. This helps to minimize potential gastrointestinal upset and may also improve its absorption.
How long does it take to see benefits from grape seed extract?
Improvements in lipid profiles and inflammation markers are typically observed within several weeks to a few months of consistent daily supplementation.
Does grape seed extract affect blood sugar levels?
Yes, a meta-analysis showed GSE can significantly reduce fasting plasma glucose. However, it does not significantly affect HbA1c levels.
Can grape seed extract help with cholesterol?
Yes, studies indicate that GSE can significantly reduce total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, making it beneficial for improving lipid profiles.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31880030/ – This meta-analysis of 50 trials found that grape seed extract significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein levels. The study highlighted the broad metabolic benefits of GSE, despite some variability in study designs and dosages.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34798267/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated GSE's effects on cardiovascular parameters like blood pressure and flow-mediated dilation. While results were mixed, indicating potential benefits, the study emphasized the need for more consistent dosing and duration protocols in future research to clarify its cardiovascular impact.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-grape-seed-extract-on-dyslipidaemia-a-systematic-review-and-doseresponse-metaanalysis-of-randomised-controlled-trials/B599121C6BE107077B5BED88BC8F46D2 – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis focused on dyslipidemia, concluding that GSE favorably affects LDL and triglyceride levels without impacting total or HDL cholesterol. The research underscored the importance of specific dosages in achieving these beneficial effects on lipid profiles.
