Proanthocyanidins

Also indexed as:

Grape Seed Extract, Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs), Procyanidolic Oligomers (PCOs)

Proanthocyanidins-also called "OPCs" for oligomeric procyanidins or "PCOs" for procyanidolic oligomers-are a class of nutrients belonging to the flavonoid family.

Where are they found?

Proanthocyanidins can be found in many plants, most notably pine bark, grape seed, and grape skin. However, bilberry, cranberry, black currant, green tea, black tea, and other plants also contain these flavonoids. Nutritional supplements containing proanthocyanidins extracts from various plant sources are available, alone or in combination with other nutrients, in herbal extracts, capsules, and tablets.

Proanthocyanidins have been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Chronic venous insufficiency
	Capillary fragility Retinopathy Sunburn
	Pancreatic insufficiency Varicose Veins
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Flavonoids and proanthocyanidins are not classified as essential nutrients because their absence does not induce a deficiency state. However, proanthocyanidins may have many health benefits, and anyone not eating the various plants that contain them would not derive these benefits.

How much is usually taken?

Flavonoids (proanthocyanidins and others) are a significant source of antioxidants in the average diet. Proanthocyanidins at 50-100 mg per day is considered a reasonable supplemental level by some doctors, but optimal levels remain unknown.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Flavonoids, in general, and proanthocyanidins, specifically, have not been associated with any consistent side effects. As they are water-soluble nutrients, excess intake is simply excreted in the urine.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with Proanthocyanidins.

Last Review: 09-07-2006

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.

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