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):
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, 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.
The information presented in Aisle7 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 February 2010.
