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Fruit Sources of Antioxidants, Carotenoids, Phytochemicals Suppling High OPC Flavonoid
Levels Are Proven Beneficial For Supporting Cardiovascular Health.
Cranberry juice rich in antioxidant procyanidins is effective at boosting
the health of blood vessels, thereby supporting previous research
supporting the cardiovascular health of such compounds.
While the potential heart health benefits of flavonoid-rich diets have
been reported previously, there was uncertainty about which specific
phytochemicals present in flavonoid-rich foods provide the most the
benefits, according to the British and Japanese researchers behind
the new study.
Findings published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food
Chemistry indicate that oligomeric procyanidins (OPC) had "by far
the most potent effects" on the function of the endothelium (the cells
lining blood vessels).
The research also builds the science and understanding
surrounding the consumption of cranberry juice. "Cranberry
consumption is mostly studied in relation to the beneficial effects
of A-type procyanidins on urinary tract health," explained the
researchers. "However, when the anti-atherosclerotic actions of
OPC are also considered, the daily consumption of cranberry juice
is likely to have multiple health benefits."
Study Details
The researchers tested the effects of flavonoids on endothelial
|function. The in vitro tests focussed on measuring of synthesis of
the vasoconstrictors endothelin-1 (ET-1).
Extracts of cranberry and cranberry juice (Ocean Spray Cranberries)
compared to apple, cocoa, red wine, and green tea showed that
OPC content determined the extent of inhibition of ET-1 synthesis,
they said. Procyanidin-rich extracts of cranberry juice were also
found to produce changes in the morphology of endothelial cells
that were independent of the compounds' antioxidant activity.
"In agreement with previous studies on cultured endothelial cells
or isolated vessels, compared to flavonoid monomers, OPC
have by far the most potent effects on endothelial function," wrote
the researchers. "Whether this is also true following dietary
consumption of products containing OPC requires a more detailed
examination of the relationship between bioavailability and
functional effects," they added.
Most studies have shown a benefit of OPCs with doses in the
range of 100 to 300 milligrams a day, with the researchers
recommending doses of 100 to 200 mg per day.
According to data from the US Department of Agriculture, a
healthy diet should provide an adequate intake of OPCs, but
studies have suggested that intake of an average diet is only
about 25 mg per day.
Source: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
Published online "Regulation of Vascular Endothelial Function by Procyanidin-Rich Foods and Beverages"
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