Pine Bark Extract Found to Strengthen Metabolic Parameters

08 May 2015 --- New research reports further natural solutions for those at heightened risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) – the number one killer in America. A study published in the Journal of International Angiology found that daily supplementation of Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all), a standardized natural plant extract from French maritime pine tree bark, may help improve endothelial function for those with borderline hypertension, hyperglycemia, or hyperlipidemia.

The study showed Pycnogenol to be effective in helping to normalize blood pressure, manage LDL cholesterol and reduce oxidative stress levels.

Nearly 70 million Americans suffer from hypertension, which can be stimulated by endothelial dysfunction – a condition in which the inner lining of blood vessels does not function normally. Endothelial dysfunction can result from and contribute to several cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and septic shock.

“Approximately 85 million Americans suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease. Endothelial cells play a crucial role in defending against CAD and ensuring proper blood flow through our blood vessels. This study finds Pycnogenol may be a useful addition for patients with endothelial dysfunction who have borderline hyperglycemia, hypertension and hyperlipidemia,” said Dr. Steven Lamm, a physician and nutritional medicine expert. “For those with increased CAD risk, this kind of alternative can be an important step in avoiding development of serious heart conditions.”

The peer-reviewed study conducted at Chieti-Pescara University in Italy included 92 participants with borderline hyperlipidemia, hypertension or hyperglycemia between ages 40-60, all of whom were generally fit and followed a healthy lifestyle.

In the study, 49 participants supplemented Pycnogenol 50mg/three times daily in combination with a controlled health plan; 43 participants in the control group followed the controlled health plan alone. The health plan involved a reduction of carbohydrates and caffeinated drinks and daily exercise. While there is no defined treatment for endothelial dysfunction, lifestyle patterns and daily exercise routines have shown to lower cholesterol levels.

Subjects were evaluated at 8 and 12 weeks.

Daily supplementation with Pycnogenol was shown to:
• Significantly improve endothelial function (55 percent after 8 weeks of supplementation; 66 percent after 12 weeks of supplementation)
• Significantly reduce oxidative stress by 20 percent
• Normalize blood pressure in subjects with borderline hypertension
• Reduce cholesterol levels in participants with borderline hyperlipidemia
• Improve fasting glucose levels in the group with borderline high glucose levels

“This study builds on previous research showing that Pycnogenol can play a role in helping to reduce platelet aggregation, blood pressure and oxidative stress. There have been a number of studies proving Pycnogenol’s effectiveness in helping to lower LDL cholesterol levels, normalize capillary blood vessels morphology and function, and overall, improve blood circulation. A study from 2012 at the University Hospital Zurich has already established the improvement of endothelial function in people with coronary artery disease. These new findings show and confirm that Pycnogenol can help improve overall endothelial function – an important area of research for millions of patients and an essential step in the progression of pre-clinical atherosclerosis – especially those with borderline hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia or borderline hypertension,” said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, lead researcher of the study.

Endothelial function was measured using a flow-mediated-dilation (FMD) and laser Doppler for the assessment of the distal finger flux. In addition plasma free radicals (PFR) metabolic parameters and blood pressure were evaluated. When Pycnogenol was added to a controlled health plan, endothelial function improved by 66 percent over a 12 week period.

Pycnogenol improvement of endothelial function can be explained by its ability to activate the enzyme endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), present in endothelial cells, to more efficiently generate nitric oxide (NO) from the precursor amino acid L-arginine.

This study further strengthens Pycnogenol’s robust portfolio of heart health benefits and provides additional support that the antioxidant is a safe, natural option for those dealing with cardiovascular problems. Past clinical trials have shown beneficial effects of Pycnogenol on chronic inflammation as well as cardiovascular risk factors including endothelial function, hypertension, cholesterol and platelet function.