OPCs Show Support for Cardiovascular Health

HEALTH NEWS

Cranberry juice rich in antioxidant procyanidins is effective in boosting the health of blood vessels, thereby supporting earlier research encouraging the use of such compounds for promoting cardiovascular health.

While the potential heart-health benefits of flavonoid-rich diets have been reported previously, there was uncertainty about which constituents in flavonoid-rich foods may be behind the benefits, according to the British and Japanese researchers conducting the new study.

Findings published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry indicate that oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs) had "by far the most potent effects" on the function of the endothelium (the cells lining the blood vessels). The research also builds upon 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 OPCs are also considered, the daily consumption of cranberry juice is likely to have multiple health benefits."

Led by Professor Roger Corder at the Queen Mary University of London, the researchers tested the effects of flavonoids on endothelial function. Cultured endothelial cells were used as a bioassay and endothelin-1 (ET-1) synthesis was measured as an index of the response.  

Comparing extracts of cranberry and cranberry juice to those of 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, OPCs have by far the most potent effects on endothelial function," wrote the researchers.

Most studies have shown a benefit of OPCs with doses in the range of 100 mg to 300 mg per day.

Source: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry