Pycnogenol Reduces Heart Disease Risk
Researchers at the University of Arizona have found that the flavonoid-rich dietary supplement, known as Pycnogenol® may reduce heart disease risk factors in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, supplementing with Pycnogenol daily for 12 weeks helped subjects with type 2 diabetes lower their cholesterol and lower their fasting blood glucose levels. In addition, the subjects were able to reduce their use of blood pressure lowering medication. (Zibadi S et al. Nutr Res. 2008 May;28(5):315-20.)
Pycnogenol contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) as well as several other bioflavonoids: catechin, epicatechin, phenolic fruit acids (such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid), and taxifolin, but don’t confuse it with grape seed extract. They are different. Pycnogenol is the patented trade name for a water extract of the bark of the French maritime pine.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: This study provides more insight on what has so far been mixed data about Pycnogenol’s effect on high blood pressure and cholesterol. The fact that it was a controlled clinical trial bodes well for the supplement gaining mainstream acceptance as a heart helper.
