Approximately 40 percent of adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome. Considered a risk factor for both coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when at least three of five conditions are present: abdominal obesity, insulin resistance (impaired glucose tolerance), low serum HDL, elevated serum triglycerides, and an elevated blood pressure.

A study published in the July 16th issue of Metabolism Clinical and Experimental (www.metabolismjournal.com) indicates that the use of MegaNatural BP® grape seed extract in conjunction with lifestyle modification may effectively lower blood pressure in patients with metabolic syndrome. Patients with metabolic syndrome are also encouraged to increase their exercise levels, lose weight, eat more healthfully and stop smoking.

Representatives of MegaNatural BP will be available to discuss the study at SupplySide West, which takes place November 11-13 in Las Vegas. They will be in Booth #15015.

The placebo controlled trial was undertaken with 24 subjects with metabolic syndrome that documented the blood pressure lowering effect of MegaNatural BP grape seed extract. Two dosage levels (150 mg/day and 300 mg/day) and a placebo were given to three groups of eight patients respectively. After one month of treatment, there was a significant reduction in blood pressure in both groups given MegaNatural BP. There was no change in the group given the placebo. Also, subjects given 300 mg of MegaNatural BP had a significant decrease in the concentration of oxidized LDL in plasma.

"This new study results suggest that MegaNatural BP, with its strong anti-oxidant activity and favorable effects on blood pressure, could be of value in a lifestyle management program directed towards people suffering from metabolic syndrome," says Dr. Anil Shrikhande, President of Polyphenolics.