Abundant living with John Arts Abundant Health

 Most have heard of curcumin from turmeric and some about oligomeric proanthocyanidins – known as OPC – from grape seeds. When used together these potent, biologically-active compounds can have profound health benefits.

If you do some research you’ll find an extensive list of health problems these two compounds can influence. This shouldn’t be surprising because both are antioxidants that additionally help the body to turn off unwanted inflammation. As an example one of my clients with ongoing hip problems added my curcumin/OPC formula and is now much more comfortable.

OPC is extracted from the purple pigments on red wine grape seeds. My favourite OPC is ActiVin. This top grade Californian OPC is extracted from Nappa Valley grape seeds using a patented ActiPure water and alcohol method.

OPC has significant benefits. It’s excellent for circulation because it protects the proteins that make up blood vessel walls from free radical damage. This can help with general circulation and is great support for those with hypertension. Additionally, it has strong anti-inflammatory functions by helping prevent immune cells from over-producing a number of inflammatory chemicals.

Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric. When we’re discussing food we talk about turmeric. When discussing its health benefits we’re talking about curcumin. Like OPC, curcumin is a potent antioxidant and has significant anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is possibly the most researched natural health compound. It’s excellent to add when looking to build our natural anti-inflammatory systems.

I use these compounds as part of nutritional support programmes for those with inflammatory problems. It’s an ideal booster for those with serious osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune problems. When added at correct doses they can make a huge difference. Feel free to contact me for personalised advice.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email: john@abundant.co.nz Join his full weekly newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz