Effect of grape seed extract in subjects with the metabolic syndrome

This study was undertaken to determine whether grape seed extracts (GSE) which contain powerful vasodilator phenolic compounds lower blood pressure (BP) in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. The subjects were randomized into 3 groups: i) placebo, ii) 150mg GSE/day, iii) 300 GSE mg/day) and treated for 4 weeks. Serum lipids and blood glucose were measured at the beginning of the study and at the end. BP was recorded using an ambulatory monitoring device at the start of the treatment period and at the end. Both the systolic and diastolic blood pressures were lower after treatment with GSE as compared with placebo. There were no significant changes in serum lipids or blood glucose values. These findings suggest that GSE could be used as a nutraceutical in a lifestyle modification program for patients with the metabolic syndrome.