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HERBAL CONNECTION HEALTH NEWS
NOVEMBER, 2005
Most Frequently Asked Questions about OPCs
What are OPCs?
Oligomeric proanthocyanidins, commonly called OPCs, is a product commonly derived from one or more of a combination of grape seed extract, red wine extract and/or pine bark extract. They are found naturally in fruits and vegetables and are located in the skins which is the part most commonly discarded.
OPCs are very powerful bioflavanoids. They are far more potent than either vitamins C or E. Like vitamin C, proanthocyanidins bind to collagen and elastin fibers, but are even more effective than vitamin C. Vitamin C leaves the body quickly, while proanthocyanidins stay in the body for a few days. OPCs have been shown to have powerful "free-radical" scavenging activity. They are non-toxic, bioavailable, water soluble bioflavanoids.
What are Bioflavanoids?
Bioflavanoids are complex organic plant compounds found mostly in fruits, vegetables and certain tree barks. They are powerful antioxidants, "free-radical scavengers" and function as helpers to influence the body immune response to inflammation, allergy and infection. There are more than 20,000 different types of bioflavanoids, of which OPCs are considered the most potent antioxidants.
What does "bioavailable" mean?
Ready to be absorbed into the body.
What are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are compounds that protect our cells and tissues from damaging interactions with oxygen free-radicals. Well known antioxidant nutrients include A, C, E, zinc, selenium and betacarotene. These nutrients bolster the action of our natural defense enzymes.
How powerful are OPC Antioxidants?
They are 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E. They are non-toxic and cross the blood-brain barrier.
Are Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins safe?
Absolutely! OPCs have been used for over 20 years throughout Europe. Extensive studies and laboratory testing reveal no evidence for human toxicity, allergic reactions, birth defects, or carcinogenicity. The specific benefits of proanthocyanidins are supported in numerous medical journals. Following are some key reports:
- Pharmacy Practice News, December 1990: Proanthocyanidins have anti-allergy properties. (This was reported by Dr. Duncan Bell, head of biochemists at the Royal College of Surgeons in England.)
- A French medical journal, Les Semaine des Hopitaus de Paris, 1983; Proanthocyanidins may be usuful for rellieving dementia because they readily cross the blood-brain barrier.
- Medicine Hypothesis, 1993, concluded appropriate antioxidant intervention by inhibiting or reducing free radical toxicity may offer protection against radiation and alleviate or delay symptoms of aging and chronic disease.
What are some sources of OPCs?
Grape seed extract is a superior source of OPC, containing 92% active ingredients and pine bark contains 84% of the active OPC ingredient.*
Can I take vitamins with and OPC supplement?
Yes! OPC works synergistically with vitamins. OPC potentates vitamin C and regenerates vitamin E (spent in the fight against free-radicals).
Are OPC supplements a cure for anything?
No! OPCs do not cure anything... What they do is help the body to neutralize the invasion of free-radicals. Your body has the amazing ability to heal itself, if it is functioning properly. When free-radicals are controlled, the body can function the way it was meant to... and will heal itself.
What causes Free-Radicals?
Environmental pollution, food additives, high fat diet, excessive alcohol, smoking and passive smoke inhalation, burns, infection, stress, radiation and nutrient deficiencies.
How much damage can be caused by Free Radicals?
A lot... They attack all body tissues, degrade collagen and reprogram DNA. Free-radicals have been said to be the underlying cause in almost every disease.
Is Free-Radical damage to your body real?
Yes... Free-radical damage or oxidative stress is very real. Everyone is subjected to it. Free-radicals have been directly linked to premature aging, arthritis, circulatory disorders, diabetes, liver cirrhosis, heart disease, arteriosclerosis and many other disorders.
Should I take an OPC supplement daily?
Yes! Antioxidants protect you against the harmful and destructive effects of free-radical damage. If you don't have adequate protection against these free-radicals, you are very likely to age faster and experience otherwise avoidable health problems. OPC antioxidants are powerful, natural, free-radical neutralizers.
I hope this article answers some of your questions regarding OPCs, antioxidants and free radicals. Make sure to check out our top of the line OPC product, PERFOR-MAX. It is on sale this month and is available in two formulations. For optiumum protection combine it with one of our multi-vitamins found on our VITAMINS & MINERALS catagory. Take charge of your health and protect yourself!!
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Take Care,
Pamela Reynolds
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