Introduction

What is cognitive well-being?

Cognitive well-being describes the healthy functioning of the brain and the ability to perform various mental tasks. This includes problem-solving, memory, attentiveness, alertness, thinking clearly and a positive mindset.¹ Our ability to perform these tasks depends on our brains' health. From ancient civilisations until now, people have relied on natural remedies to boost health and improve brain vitality. Certain factors influence cognitive decline in humans including age, lifestyle factors, sleep quality and stress.

What are grape seed extracts (GSE)?

Grape seed extract is described as a natural dietary supplement obtained from the seeds of grapes. They are made by extracting the seeds from grapes and drying them.² They usually exist in powdered forms and have been described as a rich source of important chemical compounds needed for a healthy life. These chemicals in grape seed extracts have been proven to improve heart function, reduce blood pressure, combat chronic illness, help maintain optimal cholesterol levels, and act as a potent antioxidant.³ 

Can grape seed extracts improve cognitive function? 

There is a lot still yet to be discovered on the potential benefits grape seed extracts may have on cognitive well-being, however, current research suggests it can improve cognitive function and may as well delay the onset of cognitive-related disorders.¹⁰

History of grape seed extracts

Grapes are known to be one of the earliest fruits to be consumed by humans. From the ancient Egyptians to the Roman era, grapes were used in wine-making and symbolised jubilee and celebrations for years. French researchers in the late 20th century, into the early 21st century pioneered the discovery of the potential use of grape seed extracts for various health conditions. They identified the presence of oligomeric proanthocyanidins in grape seed extracts and further described how important these compounds are for improving health and wellness. Their discovery led to the commercialisation of grape seed extract as an important natural supplement needed for a healthy life. Today, grape seed extracts are one of the most in-demand natural supplements sold commercially in natural remedy stores and wellness centres across continents.

Getting to know grape seed extract

What are the main constituents of GSE?

The main constituents of grape seeds are flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes(OPCs), phenolic acids and anthocyanins.⁴ These compounds contain antioxidant properties that reduce inflammation, eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and work through mechanisms to reduce neurodegeneration in the brain.⁵ Different grape-seed extracts will have varying amounts of proanthocyanidins and flavonoids depending on the type of grapes. Furthermore, various grapes have different growing seasons resulting in inconsistent amounts of these beneficial compounds. 

How is GSE extracted?

Grape seed extracts are obtained industrially through a multi-step process. Initially, after grapes are pressed for wine or juice production, the remaining pomace (a mixture of grape skins, pulp, and seeds) is collected. This byproduct is an abundant source of seeds and is separated from the skin and pulp through a drying and sieving process. Once isolated, the grape seeds undergo a further drying phase to reduce the moisture, making them suitable for extraction. They are then further dried and pulverised to obtain a powdered form which is then sold commercially as dietary supplements.

Research findings on GSE and cognitive well-being

Recent findings have demonstrated that the chemical compounds contained in grape seed extracts possess antioxidant properties that can slow down age-related cognitive decline and delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.⁶

Another study also showed an improvement in alertness, language and neuropsychological status (brain damage and mental health status) in older adults who consumed grape seed extract 150mg for 12 weeks.⁷

Animal studies have also shown that grape seed extracts can improve long and short-term memory due to the antioxidant properties present in its chemical constituents.⁸

It is worth noting that more research on humans needs to be done to establish a strong connection between Grape Seed Extracts(GSE) and cognitive function.

How to Incorporate grape seed extract into your diet for cognitive health

A healthy diet is irreplaceable, and grape seed extract should not be used as a substitute for whole fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are crucial for daily nutrition, offering essential fibre, vitamins, minerals, and diverse phytonutrients. Grape seed extracts provide concentrated doses of specific phytonutrients that may be challenging to obtain solely through diet. It is important to recognize grape seed extract as a supplement that complements a healthy diet rather than a stand-alone replacement. Grape seed extracts can be incorporated into your normal diet in the following ways;

Dietary supplements

One of the most convenient ways is through dietary supplements, available in capsule or tablet form. These supplements provide a standardised dose of grape seed extract, making it easy to integrate into your daily routine.

Liquid form

Liquid formulations of grape seed extract can be made and produced at home. These can be added to beverages like water or juice. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage guidelines.

Powdered form

Grape seed extract is also available in powdered form. The powdered form can be mixed into smoothies, yoghurt, or sprinkled over cereals and salads.

Navigating dosage and safety

Grape seed extract is generally well tolerated when consumed in moderate quantities. Grape seed extracts may be unsafe if you have a bleeding disorder or are about to undergo surgery or if you take anticoagulants (blood thinners), such as warfarin or aspirin. It is unclear whether it’s safe to use grape seed extract during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.⁹ Do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if any side effects persist.

Summary

Cognitive well-being is an important indicator of a healthy life. It involves alertness, good memory and optimal brain functioning. Grape seed extracts were first discovered in the late 1900s and have since been marketed as dietary supplements that have a positive effect on cognitive function. The chemical constituents of grape seed extracts are oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes and flavonoids. These compounds act as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory chemicals that improve cognitive well-being. Grape seed extracts are extracted industrially by obtaining the seeds from grapes after it is pressed for wine. The seeds are dried and pulverized into powdered forms. Several research studies in both humans and animals have demonstrated that grape seed extracts have a positive effect on memory, language and mental health status. GSE can be incorporated into a diet as a capsule, liquid forms and powdered forms. It is important to consume GSE in moderate forms and is not recommended for patients with bleeding disorders.