Indication: Cardiovascular health

Source: Metabolism, October 2003;52(10):1250-7.

Research: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of a standardized formulation of a polyphenolic extract of grapes (Leucoselect-Phytosome [LP]) on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) susceptibility to oxidation in a group of heavy smokers. A randomized, double-blind, crossover study was undertaken in 24 healthy male heavy smokers aged > or = 50 years. Enrolled subjects were given two capsules twice daily for four weeks (phase 1). Each capsule contained 75 mg of a grape procyanidin extracts and soy phosphatidylcholine or placebo, which consisted of 75 mg lactose and soy phosphatidylcholine. A wash out period of three weeks was then followed by four weeks of the opposite treatment (phase 2). Blood samples were taken at baseline and at the end of each phase and assayed for plasma lipids and LDL susceptibility to oxidation. Compliance was good and no adverse effects were recorded.

Results: Researchers found that treatment with Leucoselect Phytosome, compared with placebo, induced a 20% reduction of the lipidic peroxidation, with a significant 15% increase of LDL resistance to oxidating stress. They concluded that the antioxidant potential of grape seed extract poly­phenols may prove effective in a model of oxidative stress (smoking); however more investigational data are needed before use in wider clinical settings.