Harnessing the power of polyphenols: Unlocking heart-healthy benefits with Vintera™ Grape Extract and Hytolive™ Olive Extract

Polyphenols are a group of powerful plant-derived compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These bioactive molecules, found in abundance in fruits, vegetables, and certain beverages like wine and olive oil, are shown to help protect the body from oxidative stress - a key contributor to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Among the most celebrated polyphenols are those derived from the Mediterranean diet, especially from olives and grapes. These polyphenols not only offer protection against oxidative damage but also support heart health by improving ‘good’ cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) levels, reducing inflammation, and enhancing circulation. Ingredients like Hytolive™, an olive extract, and Vintera™, a grape extract, harness the potent power of these polyphenols to provide science-backed, heart-healthy benefits that can transform wellness products aimed at improving cardiovascular health and overall vitality.

What are polyphenols?

Polyphenols are bioactive compounds found in plants, especially in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices. These compounds help plants defend against environmental stressors such as UV radiation, pests, and pathogens. When consumed by humans, polyphenols offer various health benefits, primarily through their ability to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a significant contributor to the development of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Including polyphenols in a diet can support overall health in numerous ways, from improving digestion and cardiovascular health to enhancing cognitive function and skin appearance. Renowned for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and disease-preventive properties, polyphenols are an essential component of a health-conscious diet.

Vintera™ and Hytolive™: Polyphenol powerhouses

Vintera™ and Hytolive™ are exceptional sources of polyphenols, offering a robust foundation for creating products that support heart health, cognitive function, and overall wellness. Vintera™ is derived from grape skins and seeds, rich in proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins, while Hytolive™ boasts hydroxytyrosol, one of nature’s most effictiveantioxidants.

Types of polyphenols and their health benefits

Polyphenols consist of over 8,000 unique types, grouped into four main categories, each providing distinctive health benefits. 

• Flavonoids: Found in colourful fruits and vegetables like apples, berries, and citrus, flavonoids are the most common polyphenols in the human diet, known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Phenolic acids: Predominantly found in the skins, seeds, and leaves of acidic fruits (such as grapes and cherries), these compounds are especially valued for their powerful antioxidant effects.

• Stilbenes: Found in grapes and red wine, stilbenes like resveratrol are widely recognised for their heart-health benefits, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

• Lignans: Present in seeds, nuts, and whole grains, lignans help balance hormones and may play a role in cancer prevention.

The proven health benefits of polyphenols

Polyphenols offer a wide range of proven health benefits, especially their ability to act as antioxidants, neutralising free radicals and preventing oxidative stress. This protection helps prevent cellular damage, leading to premature ageing and chronic diseases.

• Antioxidant protection: Polyphenols help reduce oxidative stress, slowing the ageing process and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Chronic inflammation contributes to arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. Polyphenols help mitigate inflammation, lowering the risk of these conditions.

• Heart health: Polyphenols improve cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Neuroprotective benefits: Some polyphenols support cognitive function and may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

• Weight management: Polyphenols can boost metabolism and support weight management, making them vital to functional health products.

Polyphenols: Driving functional innovation

Polyphenols are at the core of a growing trend for health-focused ingredients, driven by consumer demand for functional, clean-label, and sustainable solutions. These compounds are essential for addressing multiple health concerns, from oxidative stress to inflammation. Their rising popularity has brought ingredients like Vintera™ Grape Extract and Hytolive™ Olive Extract to the forefront, offering brands high-impact options for creating innovative products.

Vintera™ Grape Extract exemplifies sustainable sourcing by upcycling grape skins and seeds – by-products of the wine industry – into a premium, polyphenol-rich ingredient. This sustainable process not only reduces waste but also supports the clean-label movement, ensuring Vintera™ is solvent-free, non-GMO, vegan, and allergen-free. Packed with proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins, it delivers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, and it is ideal for heart health supplements, functional foods, and beauty applications.

Hytolive™ Olive Extract, derived from the by-products of olive oil production, harnesses hydroxytyrosol, a superior antioxidant known for its ability to fight oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Like Vintera™, Hytolive™ is clean-label compliant, non-GMO, and solvent-free, providing a natural, sustainable solution for heart-health products.

Decoding the French Paradox

The "French Paradox" is a phenomenon that has intrigued researchers for decades. It refers to the puzzling observation that despite a diet rich in saturated fats - think buttery pastries, rich cheeses, and fatty meats - French citizens experience relatively low rates of coronary heart disease (CHD). This is especially surprising when you consider that about 34% of the population smokes, and nearly half of the country doesn't engage in regular physical activity. Yet, heart disease rates in France remain lower than expected and continue declining. So, what’s behind this paradox?

The answer lies in the Mediterranean diet, particularly the polyphenols found in red wine and olive oil. These plant compounds significantly reduce oxidative stress, improve cholesterol levels, and lower inflammation, all of which contribute to heart health.

Wine and Olives: The Mediterranean’s heart-healthy secrets

It’s not about indulging in excessive wine consumption or overeating fatty cheeses. Instead, it’s about balance and moderation. Both red wine and olive oil are rich in polyphenols - antioxidant compounds that fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. The key polyphenols found in red wine, such as resveratrol and catechins, help enhance the body's ability to process cholesterol, promote healthy blood vessels, and reduce inflammation contributing to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries). However, this benefit only comes when wine is consumed in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.

Equally important is olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), which is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet. EVOO contains hydroxytyrosol, a potent polyphenol that helps prevent the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol and supports the function of HDL (good) cholesterol. When combined with omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds, olive oil helps improve blood flow and reduces the risk of heart disease.

Together, red wine and olive oil create a powerful combination that protects the cardiovascular system, counteracting some of the negative effects of a diet high in saturated fats. These natural polyphenols offer a holistic approach to heart health - promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting healthy cholesterol levels.

How the Mediterranean diet is shaping modern wellness products

Incorporating the Mediterranean diet's key elements - polyphenols from wine and olives - into modern supplements and functional foods is now easier than ever. Leading the way are innovative ingredients like Vintera™, an upcycled grape extract, and Hytolive®, a potent olive extract. These products bring the health benefits of Mediterranean ingredients into a variety of modern health solutions, from supplements to beauty products.

Vintera™: Unlocking the heart-healthy benefits of grapes

Vintera™ is a unique grape extract that harnesses the power of polyphenols from grape seeds and skins, including proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins. These antioxidants offer multiple health benefits, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health. Research has shown that grape polyphenols can help reduce LDL cholesterol oxidation, improve endothelial function (which supports healthy blood flow), and reduce blood pressure. Derived from the by-products of winemaking, Vintera™ is a sustainable, upcycled ingredient that provides all the cardiovascular benefits of wine, without the alcohol content.

Vintera™ is produced using a clean, water-based extraction process, ensuring it’s free from solvents and other chemicals. It’s also certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and Halal, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. This versatility makes Vintera™ an ideal ingredient for heart-health supplements, functional foods, and even beauty products that promote youthful skin and anti-aging effects.

Hytolive®: A polyphenol powerhouse from olive oil

Hytolive® is an EVOO extract that concentrates the health-boosting polyphenols naturally found in olives. One of its primary active compounds, hydroxytyrosol, is an exceptionally potent antioxidant that has been shown to protect against oxidative damage, lower inflammation, and improve heart health. This extract is produced using a clean, solvent-free process, making it ideal for clean-label formulations.

Hytolive® is rich in hydroxytyrosol, which helps protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation, a key step in preventing atherosclerosis. Additionally, it supports HDL cholesterol function, promoting better circulation and heart health. By combining Hytolive® with omega-3-rich foods such as salmon, flax seeds, and nuts, you can further boost the heart-healthy benefits of your diet. It’s a natural fit for use in supplements, functional foods, and even in beauty products focused on anti-aging and skin health.

The versatility of Vintera™ and Hytolive® in the modern marketplace

Both Vintera™ and Hytolive® offer significant versatility across multiple industries, making them powerful additions to a wide range of consumer products. Their applications extend well beyond supplements and functional foods to beauty, skincare, and even pet care.

• Nutraceuticals: These ingredients are ideal for heart-health supplements, supporting cardiovascular function, and reducing oxidative stress.

• Food & Beverage: Vintera™ can enhance everything from smoothies and energy drinks to fortified snacks, while Hytolive® pairs perfectly with oils, dressings, and functional beverages like olive oil-based energy drinks.

• Beauty & Personal Care: The antioxidant-rich properties of both ingredients make them great additions to anti-ageing creams, lotions, serums, and cosmetics, providing not just heart health but also skin protection from environmental stressors.

A growing demand for heart-healthy solutions

As more consumers turn to natural, science-backed ingredients to support their health, the demand for polyphenol-rich products continues to rise. Ingredients like Vintera™ and Hytolive® fit perfectly within this trend, offering natural, sustainable solutions that support cardiovascular health while also promoting overall wellness.

Both ingredients are not only effective but also align with the growing demand for sustainable, clean-label products. Vintera™ and Hytolive® are both extracted without harmful solvents, are free from artificial additives, and are certified for various dietary needs, including Halal and Kosher.

As consumers increasingly prioritise health and sustainability, incorporating these powerful polyphenol extracts into wellness products is a smart way to meet their demands. Whether you’re formulating a supplement aimed at improving heart health, a functional food to enhance overall vitality, or a beauty product to fight the signs of ageing, Vintera™ and Hytolive® offer a versatile, high-quality solution.

For more information on our range of sustainable, natural ingredients, contact the team today.