OPC / Grape Seed Extract

Buy OPC: grape seed extract in capsules and powder

OPC stands for oligomeric proanthocyanidins: a group of polyphenols that occur naturally in grape seeds. OPC supplements are usually made from grape seed extract, a concentrated extract of the seeds that remain after grapes are pressed for wine or juice. OPC itself has no approved health claims; in products with sufficient vitamin C (at least 15% of the reference intake per serving), the approved claims for vitamin C apply. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the blood vessels and skin, to the protection of cells against oxidative stress, and to the normal function of the immune system.

In this collection you will find OPC grape seed extract in various forms: high-dose capsules containing 1000 mg of grape seed extract from Vit4ever, combinations of OPC with natural vitamin C in capsules and powder, and the Wine OPC capsules from our own brand LUTO Supplements, standardised to 95% PCO and 30% OPC. This allows you to choose the form and dosage that best suits you.

What is OPC?

OPC is the abbreviation for oligomeric proanthocyanidins, plant substances that belong to the flavonoids, a subgroup of polyphenols. They can be found in grape seeds, grape skins, red wine, pine bark, and berries, among other things. In supplements, OPC is almost always extracted from grape seeds (Vitis vinifera), because they are naturally rich in these compounds. The term PCO (procyanidin oligomers) refers to the same family of substances and is often used in the standardisation of extracts.

What do OPCs occur naturally in?

OPCs occur naturally in grapes (especially in the seeds and skin), red wine, apples, cocoa, blueberries, cranberries, and the bark of the sea buckthorn. The amounts in ordinary food are relatively low compared to a concentrated extract. A grape seed extract supplement provides a concentrated amount in one or two capsules, without the calories or alcohol that, for example, are found in red wine.

Capsules or powder: which form do you choose?

Capsules are the most popular form: they are tasteless, easy to dose, and convenient for on the go. Powder is a good alternative if you prefer not to swallow capsules; you mix it with water, juice, or a smoothie. The powder in this collection combines grape seed extract with natural vitamin C from acerola. When comparing, pay attention to the amount of extract per daily dose and to the percentage of OPC or PCO to which the extract is standardised.

OPC with vitamin C

Many OPC supplements are combined with vitamin C, often from natural sources such as acerola cherries. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the blood vessels, skin, gums, and cartilage. In addition, vitamin C contributes to the protection of cells against oxidative stress and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and vitamin C increases the absorption of iron. These claims only apply to products with sufficient vitamin C.

What does 95% PCO or 30% OPC mean?

Grape seed extracts differ greatly in concentration. A standardised extract states the percentage of polyphenols, PCO, or OPC that it contains at minimum. For example, LUTO Wine OPC contains an extract standardised to 95% PCO and 30% OPC. The higher the standardisation, the fewer milligrams of extract you need for the same amount of OPC. Therefore, do not compare supplements only on the amount of extract, but also on the standardised content.

Dosage: how much OPC per day?

Common dosages in supplements range between 100 and 500 mg of OPC per day, depending on the concentration of the extract. A capsule with 1000 mg of grape seed extract provides a portion of this as OPC, depending on the standardisation. You can spread the intake throughout the day and preferably take capsules or powder with a glass of water. Always follow the directions for use and the recommended daily dose on the packaging.

Who is OPC grape seed extract for?

OPC supplements are for adults who want to supplement their diet with polyphenols from grape seeds. The capsules and powders in this collection are vegan and free from unnecessary additives. Do you use medication, are you pregnant, or are you breastfeeding? Then consult a doctor or pharmacist before using a supplement.

What to look for when buying OPC?

When choosing an OPC supplement, look at: the standardised OPC or PCO content, the amount of extract per daily dose, the source of the extract (Vitis vinifera grape seeds), any additives such as vitamin C, and the price per daily dose instead of per jar. Large packages such as 300 or 365 capsules are often more economical per dose. All products in this collection are controlled-produced and come with a clear label.

Also view our collections Resveratrol, Quercetin, and Vitamin C.