Cardioprotective effect of a biofermented nutraceutical on endothelial function in healthy middle-aged subjects

Rejuvenation Res. 2012 Apr;15(2):178-81. doi: 10.1089/rej.2011.1276.

Abstract

We tested a biofermented nutraceutical (FPP) that has been previously shown to positively modulate nitric oxide (NO). Forty-two healthy middle-aged subjects were given 3 grams of FPP three times a day for 6 weeks, and tests were repeated at 3 and 6 weeks; the control group was given a placebo. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was measured together with NO compounds (nitrogen oxides [NOx]: NO(2)(-)+NO(3)(-)) plasma levels and asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA). In the interventional group, overall FMD significantly increased from 4.2% to 7.3% (p<0.05 vs. placebo). A significant increase in plasma NO and a decrease in ADMA were detected after consumption of FPP (p<0.01). Although larger studies are awaited, it appears that, at least in healthy individuals, such nutraceutical intervention by positively acting on significant cardiovascular parameters can be considered in the armamentarium of a proactive age-management strategy.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Arginine / analogs & derivatives
  • Arginine / blood
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Cardiotonic Agents / pharmacology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Cardiovascular System / drug effects
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Endothelium, Vascular / pathology*
  • Female
  • Fermentation*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Biological
  • Nitric Oxide / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Nitric Oxide / blood
  • Nitric Oxide / metabolism
  • Placebos
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Cardiotonic Agents
  • Placebos
  • dimethylarginine
  • Nitric Oxide
  • C-Reactive Protein
  • Arginine