From the Guidelines
Grape seed extract is the superior choice for reducing dietary contribution to the body's advanced glycation end products pool due to its high content of polyphenols, which have been shown to inhibit AGE formation and damage mediated by AGE 1. When considering the benefits of astaxanthin and grape seed extract, it's essential to look at their effects on advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs are harmful compounds that form when protein or fat combine with sugar, leading to oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Grape seed extract has been found to have a higher anti-glycation ability compared to commercial nutraceutical preparations, with an IC50 value of 9·2-15·0 μg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/ml in the BSA/fructose model system and 19·3-26·1 μg GAE/ml in the BSA/MGO model system 1.
- The anti-glycation effectiveness of grape seed extract is attributed to its high content of polyphenols, which can trap reactive carbonyl species and inhibit the formation of Amadori products and CML 1.
- Astaxanthin, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, but its effects on AGE formation are not as well-studied as those of grape seed extract.
- While both supplements can be beneficial for overall health, grape seed extract is the better choice for reducing dietary AGE intake due to its specific anti-glycation properties. Some key points to consider when choosing between astaxanthin and grape seed extract include:
- The desired health benefits: if you're looking to reduce AGE intake and support cardiovascular health, grape seed extract may be the better choice.
- The dosage: grape seed extract is typically taken at 100-300mg daily, while astaxanthin is taken at 4-12mg daily.
- The potential for synergistic effects: taking both supplements together may provide comprehensive antioxidant protection, but more research is needed to confirm this.
From the Research
Comparison of Astaxanthin and Grape Seed Extract
- Astaxanthin has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with potential benefits for cardiovascular disease 2.
- Grape seed extract has also been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, with potential benefits for various health conditions, including inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and cancer 3, 4, 5.
- Studies have demonstrated that astaxanthin can reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, and improve blood rheology 2.
- Grape seed extract has been shown to reduce plasma levels of oxidative stress and adhesion molecules, and to have neutral or mildly beneficial effects on inflammatory responses 3, 4.
- The safety of astaxanthin has been evaluated, with no adverse outcomes reported in clinical studies, and a recommended daily intake of 2-24 mg 6.
- Grape seed extract has been found to be safe and well-tolerated, with potential health benefits due to its high polyphenolic content 5.
Mechanisms of Action
- Astaxanthin has been shown to have protective effects against myocardial ischemia and reperfusion, and to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation 2.
- Grape seed extract has been found to inhibit lipid peroxidation, and to reduce the expression of adhesion molecules and oxidative stress markers 3, 4.
- The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of astaxanthin and grape seed extract may be due to their ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce inflammation 2, 3, 4, 5.
Potential Health Benefits
- Astaxanthin may have potential benefits for cardiovascular disease, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects 2.
- Grape seed extract may have potential benefits for various health conditions, including inflammation, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes 3, 4, 5.
- Both astaxanthin and grape seed extract may have potential as therapeutic agents for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and improving overall health 2, 3, 4, 5.