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What are oligomeric proanthocyanidines (OPCs)?
Oligomeric proanthocyanidines (OPCs) are a group of plant compounds belonging to the class of polyphenols. These substances are found naturally in different plants, especially in fruits, bark, seeds and leaves. OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidines) as so-called secondary plant substances are not vital for the plant, but there is no doubt that they are useful. When it comes to nutritional supplements, OPCs are best known for their powerful antioxidant properties as they have potential health benefits.
02
What properties do OPCs have?
In nature, OPCs are particularly abundant in those plant parts that border the outside world and interact with it. Larger quantities of secondary substances can also be found in kernals and kernal housings. If one considers the tasks of OPCs within the plant, they are well positioned in the outer layers and reproductive parts to form a kind of plant defence system that protects the plant from UV radiation, climate influences, predators and pest infestation.
03
Why are OPCs so interesting for research?
“What protects the plant could also benefit us humans.” Guided by this motto, nutritional research has been working closely on the world of secondary plant substances since the early 1990s. Since then, the state of knowledge about the diversity of the approximately 10,000 substances has expanded significantly and it is now more or less agreed that the plant-based protective, taste, fragrance and colour agents can also have benefits for the human organism.
Resveratrol – very much to your benefit!
Resveratrol, an ingredient in red wine, is one of the most well-known secondary plant substances. As a natural protective substance, resveratrol in plants counteracts infestation by parasites and fungi. Also, under stress, such as UV light, the plant produces more resveratrol.
04
OPC: The benefits of grape seed extract
OPCs are often valued for their powerful antioxidant properties, which help neutralise free radicals in the body, preventing cell damage. Many health benefits are based on these properties:
Anti-inflammatory effect: Due to their ability to inhibit inflammatory enzymes, OPCs can help reduce inflammatory reactions in the body.
Supporting the immune system: OPCs can support the immune system with their antioxidant effect and thus strengthen the defences.
Acceleration of wound healing: OPCs provide faster wound healing through their anti-inflammatory effect and positive effect on blood vessels and collagen synthesis.
Promotion of skin health and slower skin ageing : The antioxidant properties of OPCs can also support skin health by protecting the skin from environmental damage such as UV rays and promoting collagen production. This contributes to improved skin elasticity and tone and slows down skin ageing.
Support of the cardiovascular system: OPCs promote the elasticity and flexibility of the blood vessels by supporting collagen and elastin production. This contributes to lower blood pressure and supports overall vascular health.
Reduction of oxidative stress in the brain: The brain is particularly susceptible to free radical damage as it is high in oxygen and high in unsaturated fatty acids that can easily oxidise. OPCs help neutralise free radicals in the brain, which contributes to the protection of neurons and the maintenance of the brain function.
OPC Resveratrol Formula
05
What foods contain these OPCs?
OPCs are often associated with grape seeds. At the end of the day, these little pips are real OPC bombs. But OPC is also found in other plant-based foods. The OPC content of a food is subject to natural fluctuations, which are determined by growth conditions.
OPC occurrence at a glance:
Grape pips: Grape seed extract is one of the richest sources of OPCs.
Bark of pine: The so-called pine bark extract (pycnogenol) is particularly well known.
Berries: Especially blueberries, bilberries, cranberries and raspberries.
Red grapes: Here too, they are responsible for some of the health benefits of red wine.
Peanuts: Peanuts also contain significant amounts of OPCs, especially in the skin of the nuts.
Apples: OPCs are also found in apples, especially in the skin.
Pomegranate: Pomegranate seeds and juice are known for their antioxidant properties, with some of this effect being due to their OPC content.
Green tea: In addition to its known catechins (such as EGCG), it also contains OPCs.
06
OPC food supplements: What should I pay attention to?
If you want to fill up with an extra helping of valuable OPCs, you can provide targeted help with first-class nutritional supplements. High-quality OPC preparations are characterised by excellent product quality: They use extracts containing OPCs that have undergone strict, comprehensive quality tests and do not use unnecessary additives. The level of quality is particularly high due to strict controls by an independent third party.
Since the natural OPC content of food is subject to certain fluctuations, quality products contain standardized amounts of OPCs. This ensures that you get the amount you are expecting to take. Sophisticated combinations with other plant extracts ensure an optimum interaction of the ingredients.
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How to take OPC supplements with grape seed extract correctly
OPC supplements should best be taken on an empty stomach (approx. 30 - 45 min before or at least 30 min after a meal) with plenty of water in order to best utilise the OPC they contain. People with sensitive stomachs can take the preparation with a meal in order to ensure better tolerability.
When should you take OPC?
You can take OPC at any time of day and so you can choose the time that best suits you. Ideally, however, they should be taken on an empty stomach or at least 30 minutes after you last had a meal.
What is the recommended dose of OPC?
The recommended daily dose of OPCs is 1-2 mg per kilogram of body weight. By combining various plant extracts, additional secondary plant substances are added, which supplement and round off the OPCs.
Tip: Are you already familiar with our two OPC preparations?
With OPC Resveratrol Formula and OPC PolyMax® 250/30, we can provide you with concentrated plant power.
OPC PolyMax® 250/30
OPC Resveratrol Formula
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