Grape Seed Extract Proanthocyanidins & Stroke Recovery

Grape seed extract proanthocyanidins (PCOs) act as neuro-protective guards against the onset and recovery of stroke. They protect blood vessels and are among the few dietary antioxidants that effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, a barrier that blocks or slows the passage of organisms to the brain. The multifaceted abilities of PCOs provide protection against stroke, high cholesterol and free radicals.

Identification

• A stroke is an interruption of the blood supply to the brain and is the third-leading cause of death in America. More women than men die of stroke. However, up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable and treatable with, among other things, the addition of grape seed extract proanthocyanidins to a diet.

Expert Insight

• Recently, numerous cardiovascular disease studies have discovered that oxidation of LDL cholesterol is a key factor leading to hardening of the arteries and heart disease. The antioxidant effect of vitamin E has been used as a potent depressor of this oxidation. However, the grape seed extract PCO bioflavonoid complex is 50 times more effective than vitamin E as an antioxidant. Vitamin C has also been shown to both lower the risk and reduce the neurological damage following a stroke. PCO is 20 times more potent than vitamin C.

Types

• Grape seed extract is a well known powerful nutrient that belongs to the bioflavonoid family. It is derived from the seeds and skin of grapes, which can be green, red or purple. Numerous studies show that grape seed extract can dramatically raise the amount of antioxidants in the blood. "Proanthocyanidin" is one of the names used for a potent bioflavonoid (natural plant components that strengthen and protect living tissue) complex known as procyanidolic oligomers.

Function

• The naturally occurring antioxidants found in grape seed extract target specific tissues, strengthening the walls of arteries, reducing the risk of recurring aneurysms and hemorrhagic strokes. PCOs maintain blood vessel health, enhance blood supply to the brain and reduce the viscosity, or internal friction of blood, which is considered a major factor for stroke. They further prevent vascular injury by strengthening blood vessel walls.

Effects

• Healthy blood vessels

  PCOs also prevent the stickiness of blood platelets that can lead to blood clots and strokes. Patients taking grape seed extract have reported reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Grape seed extract provides the most concentrated form of PCO bioflavonoids. PCOs also help in stroke prevention and recovery by improving blood flow, oxygenation and aiding in the prevention of thromboembolic events. PCOs also improve blood vessel wall elasticity and lower blood pressure. By combating atherosclerosis and hypertension, PCOs provide additional protection against stroke.

Considerations

• The magic of grapes

  France has one of the world's lowest rates for heart disease. In 1995, a study published in the journal of the American Heart Association revealed that six glasses of grape juice were as successful as two glasses of wine in thwarting heart disease. This study offers persuasive evidence that PCO from grapes, rather than alcohol, provide wine's protective benefits. Whether its grape juice, red wine or supplements, adding grape seed extract to a diet has healing powers.