The Wonders of Antiaging OPCs

OPCs combat many of the negative effects of the aging process, partly through their ability to enhance immune resistance. Strong immune systems contribute to capillary strength, increase peripheral circulation, reduce skin aging and support skin elasticity. OPCs are some of the most potent immune-enhancing nutrients known: they remain in the body for three days; they are 20 times stronger than vitamins C and 50 times stronger than vitamin E; they are highly bioavailable; they are immediately absorbed from the stomach into the bloodstream; and they are distributed to virtually every organ and tissue.

Grape seed extract also enhances capillary strength and vascular function, supporting the heart and decreasing bruising, edema (selling) from injury or trauma, varicose veins and retinopathy.

By increasing peripheral circulation, OPCs may improve vision. Clinical studies have shown that antioxidants can halt cataract progression. OPCs, which have a strong affinity for the portion of the retina that is responsible for visual acuity, prevent free-radical damage and reinforce the collagen structures of the retina. Researchers have reported that OPCs improve symptoms of macular degeneration and other retinal disease. Some health professionals believe that OPCs may also help in the prevention and treatment of glaucoma.

Finally OPCs help reduce the aging of skin and loss of skin elasticity. Because of this, grape seed extract is often used topically in cosmetic preparations. Studies indicate that OPCs inhibit enzymes such as collagenase, elastase and hyaluronidase, all of which are involved in the breakdown of the skin’s structural components. OPCs help protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation damage that lead to wrinkles and skin cancer; stabilize collagen and elastin; and help improve the elasticity and youthfulness of skin. They also strengthen the connective tissue of the skin and fat chambers. When that connection is broken, the quality of the skin changes (there is speculation that cellulite may actually be a sign of OPC deficiency). People taking grape seed extract have reported that it helps tone their skin and reduce cellulite, stretch marks and old scars.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is fat-soluble polyphenol found in grapes and grape products (including grape seed extract). In 1992, scientists became aware of resveratrol in red wine, leading to speculation that resveratrol might be the answer to the French paradox. (The French paradox refers to the relatively low levels of heart disease among French people, despite their high consumption of saturated fat and cigarettes). Since then, in vitro (test tube) studies have found resveratrol to have many potential health benefits.