Delay vascular aging and reduce your risk of heart disease with grape seed extract
Added 06.02.2009
A new study has found that grape seed extract delays the aging and deterioration of blood vessels, which in turn can reduce the risk of developing heart disease (atherosclerosis).
What causes our blood vessels to deteriorate?
As we go through the natural process of aging, so do our organs and cells; but sometimes our cells age more rapidly because of smoking, exposure to toxins, oxidative stress and disease such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).Our blood vessels are lined on the inside by a thin layer of cells called endothelial cells. In scientific terms, when these endothelial cells age and deteriorate, it is known as replicative senescence. What happens is that endothelial cells lose their ability to replicate, which then results in aging of the cells and the whole individual.
OPCs are responsible for delaying the aging of blood vessels
Grape seed extract is a rich source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) - organic compounds with potent antioxidant qualities. Researchers have determined that grape seed extract can significantly delay aging by reducing DNA damage of the endothelial cells thereby delaying replicative senescence in these cells.References:
Dr. Bo Nielsen's comments:
It is well known that damage to DNA (the "brain of cells") is the leading cause of aging and of many chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. This study shows that you can reduce your risk of heart disease by taking a supplement containing 100% natural grape seed extract. One of the mechanisms of action is by delaying the aging process, in this case of endothelial cells. This study once again proves how important it is to take a daily supplement with pure grape seed extract in addition to vitamins and minerals.
