Heart disease and diabetes are two of Americas greatest health concerns, providing the nutraceutical industry with many opportunities for growth and expansion. Quality ingredients, combined with innovative formulations, are gaining acceptance in both traditional and integrative medicine.

Grape seed extract is one ingredient creating excitement in this arena. Now available in everything from dietary supplements designed for hypertension to performance-based products that are popular with consumers who use them for pre- and post-workouts, grape seed extract has for years been a go-to ingredient for product formulators interested in heart health.

Researchers have long claimed that concord and rubired grape juice, as well as high-quality grape seed extracts, are good for the heart. Several studies indicate that substances found in grapes and grape seed extracts may:

Grape seed extracts facilitate nitric oxide (NO) through up-regulation of nitric oxide synthase. One study showed a patented ingredient (as MegaNatural-BP from Polyphenolics) affects the flexibility of blood vessels (Metabolism. 2009 Dec;58(12):1743-6.) Blood vessel walls are, like all tissues, a collection of cells. This grape seed extract acts on the endothelial cells which contribute to vaso-dilation of the vessel wall.

Because people would have to eat a lot of grapes or raisins, or drink gallons of grape juice, to consume the same level of active components analyzed in most studies, high-quality grape seed extract is an excellent alternative. It is a pure source of procyanidins, the compounds believed to be responsible for grapes benefits, without the added calories, sugar or alcohol.

Finding the Right Ingredient Partner

There are grape seed extract brands that can most easily differentiate themselves from the competition. Some of their most distinguishing credentialsincluding researchwould be expensive for a company to reproduce on its own.

Here are three key areas to consider when reviewing cardio-related ingredient and technology:

Ingredient processing: From raw material sourcing and extraction to ingredient processing, many factors can result in important differences in how the finished ingredient performs. Raw material is the key for making a good quality grape seed extract with a defined structure," said Anil Shrikhande, president, Polyphenolics.

"You normally dont see that anywhere in Europe or China. The seeds are collected from different sources at smaller wineries, then brought to one central place. The elapsed time deteriorates the quality of the seed. The oxidative enzymes deteriorate the quality to oxidation browning thereby modifying the original structure of the polyphenols in the seed." He added Polyphenolics has access to an abundant supply of quality U.S-grown grapes.

Research: Industry leaders are interested in defining how their ingredients are useful for health and wellness. Compelling research will often create a stir among health care professionals and consumers who might benefit from the ingredient. For example, when UC Davis researchers revealed a strong connection between MegaNatural-BP grape seed extract and reductions in pre-hypertension, the positive reaction was swift, according to Shrikhande."

However, similar-sounding ingredients may have subtle differences; study results may apply to only the ingredient tested.

Competitive Advantages: Experienced product formulators expect more than consistent product availability, technical support and the ability to meet shipping deadlines. They also want to work with ingredient suppliers who are constantly looking for the next innovation.

To learn about significant advances in grape seed polyphenol extracts and to meet Shrikhande, join Polyphenolics at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 7, in the Casanova Room 503 and 504 at SupplySide West for a heart-healthy breakfast and a panel discussion, "Beyond Antioxidants: A New Generation of Grape Seed Polyphenol Extracts."

Mike Danielson is the director of health and nutrition division at Media Relations Inc.