Pycnogenol Reduces Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors

HOBOKEN, N.J.A recent clinical trial found Pycnogenol^® French maritime pine bark extract reduced metabolic syndrome risk factors, including obesity and high blood pressure. The results of the University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy, study were published in the January online issue of Phytotherapy Research.

Researchers gave 130 subjects either placebo of 50 mg of Pycnogenol (from Horphag Research) three times daily. All subjects exhibited all five metabolic syndrome risk factors at baseline. The supplementation group experienced weight loss, with average BMI decreasing from 26.7 to 25.1 after six months. The group also significantly reduced blood pressure and oxidative stress, and presented none of the five metabolic syndrome risk factors.

In this study, we found that Pycnogenol^® can aid people struggling with metabolic syndrome to control blood lipids, sugar and blood pressure. Results show that those who supplemented healthy diet and moderate exercise with Pycnogenol^® were able to improve heart health and lose weight, reaching an almost normal body mass index (BMI)," said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, a lead researcher of the study.

French maritime pine bark extract is used in dietary supplements, cosmetics and functional foods and beverages for various health issues, including menopause, joint health and heart disease. In February, The American Botanical Council (ABC) honored Horphag with its annual Varro E. Tyler Commercial Investment in Phytomedicinal Research Award.