OPC - impressive antioxidants
How does oxidative stress occur?
What causes oxidative stress in my body?
OPC – what is it?
What does OPC contain?
Grape seeds: Grape seed extract is one of the richest sources of the aforementioned flavonoids. These are often extracted and offered as food supplements.
Pine bark extract: Pine bark extract also contains a very high proportion of these plant substances and is also available as a dietary supplement.
Grapes: In addition to the seeds, the grape skins are also rich in these secondary plant substances.
Berries: Vitamin C and oligomeric procyanidins are found in various types of berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, cranberries and blackcurrants.
Nuts: Some types of nuts such as walnuts and peanuts also contain them, albeit in smaller quantities than grape seeds.
Cocoa beans: Cocoa is a good source of the active ingredient, especially dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.
Apples: The skin of apples in particular contains oligomeric procyanidins.
What does OPC do?
Antioxidant effect: These flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that can help combat cell damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are produced in the body as by-products of metabolism and can damage cells and tissue, which can lead to various diseases [2].
Cardiovascular health: There is evidence that OPC grape seed extract or pine bark extract can support the health of the cardiovascular system by improving blood flow, promoting the elasticity of blood vessels and regulating blood pressure [5].
Skin health: These phytochemicals can support skin health by protecting against UV radiation [6], promoting collagen production and improving skin hydration. This can help to slow down skin ageing and improve skin texture [2], which is why people often talk about anti-ageing in connection with OPC grape seed extract or pine bark extract. Find out how skin health can be additionally strengthened here!
Anti-inflammatory effect: These polyphenols have anti-inflammatory properties. This can be particularly beneficial for people with inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or gastritis [2,7].
Immune system: Some studies suggest that the OPC effect can strengthen the immune system by stimulating the production of immune cells and improving the body's immune response [16].
OPC and menopause
Skin health: During the menopause, the skin can become drier and more prone to wrinkling. Due to their antioxidant properties, OPC capsules or ointments can help to increase skin hydration, restore connective tissue and protect against premature ageing by protecting against the damaging effects of free radicals and UV radiation [6,8,9].
Bone health: Menopausal women have an increased risk of osteoporosis as oestrogen levels decrease, which can accelerate bone loss. Some studies have shown that the OPC effect of grape seed extract can also have a positive effect on bone health by promoting collagen production and improving bone strength [10,11].
Hormonal support: Some studies suggest that OPC capsules can support hormonal balance by regulating the activity of certain hormones in the body. This can help to alleviate some of the unpleasant symptoms of the menopause such as hot flushes, mood swings and sleep disorders [12,13]. The active ingredient from pine bark or grape seed extract can also help to inhibit leg swelling in women [14]. The effect of yams is also very interesting in connection with hormonal changes in women during the menopause!
Anti-inflammatory effect: OPC grape seed extract or pine bark extract has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. As inflammation can be involved in many symptoms of menopause, such as joint pain and weight gain, OPC capsules can help to alleviate these symptoms [7,9,15].
How do you take OPC?
Dosage: The recommended dosage may vary depending on the product. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging or the recommendations of your doctor or dietitian. Typically, dosages range from 100 mg to 300 mg per day, but can be adjusted according to need and individual health goals.
Time of ingestion: The active ingredient can be taken with meals or between meals. Some people prefer to take it with a meal to avoid possible stomach discomfort, while others prefer to take it on an empty stomach.
With or without water: OPC supplements can be taken with water or another drink. It is recommended to take the product according to the instructions on the packaging. Some products may have specific instructions on how best to take them.
Combination with other food supplements: OPC can be taken together with other dietary supplements as long as there are no known interactions. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking OPC in combination with other food supplements or medicines to avoid possible risks or interactions.
Continuous ingestion: To maximize the potential health benefits of OPC, regular and continuous intake is recommended. It may take a few weeks to see the full effects, so patience and consistency is important.
Sources:
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