Primary Benefits* of OPC-3® Chews

Contains same amounts of the five active ingredients as Isotonix OPC-3^®.

• Helps maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins
• Helps promote/support cardiovascular health
• Promotes/supports healthy nitric oxide levels
• Promotes/supports healthy blood vessel dilation/function
• Supports healthy platelet activity
• Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels
• Helps support visual health/visual acuity
• Powerful free-radical scavenger
• Supports a healthy complexion
• Helps maintain normal blood glucose levels
• Supports healthy sperm quality
• Helps reduce mild menstrual cramping and abdominal pain
• Helps maintain joint flexibility
• Promotes sinus comfort
• Supports immune health

 

What Makes OPC-3 Chews Unique?

The formula for OPC-3^® Chews includes some of the most powerful bioflavonoids currently known to research scientists. These bioflavonoids are scientifically termed oligomeric proanthocyanidins, commonly abbreviated OPCs. Studies have shown OPCs to be up to 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals. The best-researched OPCs are from grape seed, red wine, grape skin, bilberries, citrus fruit and Pycnogenol^®†. The combination of these powerful OPCs is unique to OPC-3.* OPC-3 Chews provide you with all the benefits of Isotonix OPC-3^® in a delicious and convenient soft chew alternative, using natural flavors, colors and sweeteners. OPC-3 Chews are designed to deliver strong antioxidant defense, as well as a variety of other health benefits, including cardiovascular and immune support, maintenance of joint flexibility and much more.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

^†Pycnogenol^® is the registered trademark of Horphag Research, Ltd., and is protected by U.S. Patents #5,720,956, #6,372,266 and pending applications and international patents.

Key Ingredients

Pycnogenol^®† 
Pycnogenol^® is a plant extract from the bark of the maritime pine tree, which grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France in Les Landes de Gascogne. This unspoiled, natural environment is the unique source of this pine bark. Pycnogenol^® is one of the most researched ingredients in the natural product marketplace. Published findings have demonstrated Pycnogenol's^® wide array of beneficial effects on the body, specifically in the realm of antioxidant health. Pine bark extract is a combination of proanthocyanidins, bioflavonoids, and organic acids. The extract has three basic properties, it is a powerful antioxidant, selectively binds to collagen and elastin, and promotes normal production of endothelial nitric oxide, which promotes normal dilation of blood vessels.* As one of the most powerful scavengers of free radicals, Pycnogenol^® combats many aggressive free radicals before they cause oxidative stress to vital organs. Its super-antioxidant capabilities help support healthy blood platelet activity, support healthy blood glucose levels, help reduce mild menstrual cramping and abdominal pain, help maintain joint flexibility, promote cardiovascular health, promote healthy sperm quality, help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support a healthy complexion.*

Grape Seed Extract 
Grape seed extract is typically extracted from the seeds of red grapes (instead of white), which have a high content of compounds known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Grape seed extract contains polyphenols, compounds with high antioxidant activity. Grape seed extract has been found to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.*

Red Wine Extract 
Red wine extract is a potent antioxidant. This extract is found in grape vines, roots, seeds and stalks, with the highest concentration in the skins. The antioxidant properties of red wine extract contribute to maintaining healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins, and promoting overall cardiovascular health.* In the late 1990s, scientists took note of a phenomenon among the French. There were very low rates of cardiovascular problems in the provinces where residents consistently ate high fat foods and drank red wine. Scientists concluded that the protective properties of red wine have helped the French maintain cardiovascular health for years and subsequent scientific studies have further shown that the OPCs found in red wine are particularly beneficial for protecting the heart and blood vessels.*

Bilberry Extract 
Bilberry extract is derived from the leaves and berry-like fruit of a common European shrub closely related to the blueberry. Extracts of the ripe berry contain flavonoid pigments known as anthocyanin, which are powerful antioxidants. Scientific studies confirm that bilberry extract supports healthy vision and venous circulation. Bilberry extract helps maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries, and veins. *

Citrus Bioflavonoids Extract 
Bioflavonoids are antioxidants found in certain plants that act as light filters, which protect the plant's DNA and other important macromolecules by absorbing ultraviolet radiation. They have been found to promote cardiovascular health and help maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins. The ability for citrus bioflavonoids to maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries, and veins is also beneficial for helping maintain brain health and supports the production of neurotransmitters.*

Ingredients Label (click image to expland)

FAQs

1. What are OPCs?
   OPC-3 Chews include some of the most powerful bioflavonoids – biologically-active members of plant-derived compounds – currently known to research scientists. These bioflavonoids are scientifically termed oligomeric proanthocyanidins, commonly abbreviated OPCs. The purest and best-researched OPCs include grape seed, red wine, grape skin, bilberries, citrus fruit, and pine bark extract, or Pycnogenol^®†.* This combination of powerful OPCs is unique to OPC-3. OPC-3 has been shown to provide a variety of health benefits, including but not limited to, combating free radicals, helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels, helping maintain healthy circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins, helping maintain joint flexibility, helping promote/support cardiovascular health, helping reduce mild menstrual cramping, helping support visual health/visual acuity, scavenging free radicals, promoting/supporting healthy blood vessel dilation, promoting/supporting healthy nitric oxide levels, supporting a healthy complexion, supporting healthy blood glucose levels, supporting healthy platelet activity and supporting healthy sperm quality.*
   
   
2. What is a free radical?
   A free radical is a molecule with an unpaired electron in its outermost shell. These unpaired electrons tend to be highly reactive, resulting in chemical reactions such as oxidation. Because they have one or more unpaired electrons, free radicals are highly unstable. They scavenge the body to grab or donate electrons, impacting cells, proteins and DNA. Free radicals are naturally occurring; however, air pollution, stress, smoking, heavy exercising and aging all contribute to the creation of harmful free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress in the body. Normally the body is able to protect itself from free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if free radical production becomes excessive, oxidation can occur.
   
   
3. What are antioxidants?
   Antioxidants are cell protectors, neutralizing free radicals by donating an electron to the outermost shell of unbalanced molecules, rendering them harmless. Antioxidants are nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, and enzymes that are capable of counteracting the effects of the physiological process of oxidation in bodily tissues. Antioxidants work in two ways: chain breaking and prevention. A chain-breaking antioxidant such as vitamins A, C and E.
   
   
4. What is a bioflavonoid?
   Bioflavonoids are complex organic plant compounds. Plants and fruits differ in colors based on the specific bioflavonoids they contain. An increasing number of clinical studies have shown how bioflavonoids support health. Bioflavonoids found in OPCs play a key role in cardiovascular health and maintaining vascular integrity. Bioflavonoids have been shown to demonstrate support for healthy circulation and cell vitality. Normal collagen renewal is promoted, which supports firmness of the skin, joint cartilage and connective tissue.
   
   
5. What sets OPC-3 Chews apart from other bioflavonoid products?
   OPC-3 Chews offer scientifically supported OPCs, found to be the most powerful antioxidants for human health. In addition to being powerful antioxidants, these individual OPCs have been shown to provide a myriad of specific health benefits. This science-driven selection of OPCs is unique to OPC-3, which make OPC-3 Chews one of the most powerful free radical scavenging product available, in addition to our Isotonix OPC-3.*
   
   
6. When will I notice the health benefits of taking OPC-3 Chews?
   Many effects of OPC-3 start to work after a single serving, while studies with human volunteers have found that the health benefits of OPCs may take a while to occur. Taking OPC-3 daily enables the body to sustain a consistent antioxidant defense.*
   
   
7. Why should everyone take OPC-3?
   Everyone is subject to the impact of free radicals and oxidative stress. Free radicals develop as byproducts of physiological processes that occur within the body. The impacts may add up over the years. This process is largely responsible for the aging process.* OPCs are the most powerful natural free radical neutralizers, and you get the best of all OPCs by taking OPC-3 Chews. Regular use every day is vital for keeping free radicals in check for a long and healthy life. Laboratory studies have shown that OPCs are more powerful antioxidants than vitamin C and vitamin E.*
   
   
8. Are OPC-3 Chews safe?
   Yes. OPCs are among the most valuable constituents of a healthy human diet. OPCs have been researched and used for over 30 years throughout Europe. OPC-3 Chews are free of harmful chemicals, preservatives and alcohol.*
   
   
9. Are there any allergens in OPC-3 Chews?
   OPC-3 Chews is a vegetarian product and contains no wheat, yeast, gluten, artificial flavor, starch, salt, preservatives or milk. OPC-3 Chews do contain soy.
   
   
10. What are the natural flavors in OPC-3 Chews?
    The natural flavoring used in OPC-3 Chews is a blend of strawberry, cranberry, licorice, vanilla and rosemary.
    
    
11. What is the serving size for OPC-3 Chews?
    Consume one (1) chew daily or as directed by your healthcare provider.
    
    
12. How do OPC-3 Chews compare to Isotonix OPC-3?
    A single OPC-3 Chew contains 25 grams of Pycnogenol† – the same amount found in a single serving of our Isotonix OPC-3 product. OPC-3 Chews are a delicious and convenient way to also get your OPC-3 – perfect for travel or extra busy days.
    
    
    

Scientific Studies

• Devaraj, S., et al. Supplementation with a pine bark extract rich in polyphenols increases plasma antioxidant capacity and alters the plasma lipoprotein profile. Lipids 37:931-4, 2002.
• Fine, AM, Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes: history, structure, and phytopharmaceutical applications. Altern Med Rev 5:144-51, 2000.
• Fitzpatrick, D., et al. Endothelium-dependent vascular effects of Pycnogenol. Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology 32: 509-515, 1998.
• Frankel, E., et al. Inhibition of oxidation of human low-density lipoprotein by phenolic substances in red wine. Lancet 341: 454-7, 1993.
• Freedman, J., et al. Select flavonoids and whole juice from purple grapes inhibit platelet function and enhance nitric oxide release. Circulation 103:2792-8, 2001.
• Frémont, L. Biological effects of resveratrol. Life Sciences 66: 663-673, 2000.
• Manna, S., et al. Resveratrol suppresses TNF-Induced activation of nuclear transcription factors NF-kB, activator protein-1, and apoptosis: potential role of reactive oxygen intermediates and lipid peroxidation. The Journal of Immunology 164: 6509-19, 2000.
• Miyagi, Y., et al. Inhibition of human low-density lipoprotein oxidation by flavonoids in red wine and grape juice. Am J Cardiol 0:1627-31, 1997.
• Monograph. Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry). Altern Med Rev 6:500-4, 2001.
• Murias M., et al. Resveratrol analogues as selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors: synthesis and structure-activity relationship. Bioorg Med Chem 12: 5571-8, 2004.
• Nuttall SL, Kendall MJ, Bombardelli E, Morazzoni P. An evaluation of the antioxidant activity of a standardized grape seed extract, Leucoselect. J Clin Pharm Ther 23: 385-89, 1998.
• Packer, L., et al. Antioxidant activity and biologic properties of a procyanidin-rich extract from pine (Pinus maritima) bark, pycnogenol. Free Radic Biol Med 27:704-24, 1999. Review.
• Segger, D. and Schönlau, F. Supplementation with Evelle® improves skin smoothness and elasticity in a double blind, placebo-controlled study with 62 women. Journal of Dermatological Treatment 15:222-26, 2004.
• Shi, J., et al. Polyphenolics in grape seeds-biochemistry and functionality. J Med Food 6:291-9, 2003. Review.
• Wallerath, T., et al. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic phytoalexin present in red wine, enhances expression and activity of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Circulation 106:1652-8, 2002.
• Bagchi, D, et al. Oxygen free radical scavenging abilities of vitamins C and E, and a grape seed proanthocyanidin extract in vitro. Res Commun Mol Pathol Pharmacol 95:179-89, 1997.
• Bagchi, D, et al. Cellular protection with proanthocyanidins derived from grape seed. Ann NY Acad Sci 957:260-70, 2002.
• Cao G, Alessio H, Cultler R. Oxygen-radical absorbance capacity assay for antioxidants. Fre Rad Biol & Med 14:301-11, 1993.
• Drew B, Leeuwenburgh C. Aging and the role of reactive nitrogen species. Ann NY Acad Sci 959:66-81, 2002.
• Graham DY, Smith JL, Bouvet, AA. What happens to tablets in the stomach. J Pharm Sci 79:420-24, 1990.
• Havsteen B. Flavonoids, a class of natural products of high pharmacological potency. Biochem Pharm 32:1141-48, 1983.
• Koparker AD, Augsburger LL, Shangraw RF. Intrinsic dissolution rates of tablet fillers and binders and their influence on the dissolution of drugs from tablet formulations. Pharm Res 7:80-85, 1990.
• Mazza G, Kay CD, Cottrell T, Holub BJ. Absorption of anthocyanins from blueberries and serum antioxidant status in human subjects. J Agric Food Chem 50:7731-37, 2002.
• Rimbach G, Virgili F, Park YC, Packer L. Effect of procyanidins from Pinus maritime on glutathione levels in endothelial cells challenged by 3-morpholinosydnonimine or activated macrophages. Redox Rep 4:171-77, 1999.
• Soloway MS, Smith RA. J Am Med Assoc 260:1465, 1988.
• Zheng W, Wang SY. Oxygen radical absorbing capacity of phenolics in blueberries, cranberries, chokeberries, and lingonberries. J Agric Food Chem 51:502-9, 2003.

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