Effect of Blueberries on Vascular Function in Healthy Men

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains one of the major causes of premature death in the world. There is now substantial evidence to indicate that the cells lining the inner surface of arteries play a major role in protection against the development and progression of CHD. This layer of cells is termed the endothelium and regulates vascular tone by promoting the expansion and contraction of the blood vessel. There are a variety of non-invasive techniques for measuring endothelial function.

Research provides evidence that consumption of a diet high in plant foods and rich in polyphenols is associated with a reduction in incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD). Polyphenols, of which the flavonoids are the largest group, are thought to play a role in the reduction of incidence of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and stroke. Recent studies in humans show that flavonoid-rich foods improve peripheral blood flow and surrogate markers of cardiovascular function. These effects were associated with acute elevations in the levels of circulating nitric oxide species, an enhanced flow mediated dilatation (FMD) response of conduit arteries, and an augmented microcirculation. Increases in circulating nitric oxide species in response to flavonoid ingestion suggest that circulating flavonoids (and/or their metabolic forms) may exert positive effects on vascular tone.

The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of acute flavonoid intake on postprandial vascular reactivity of healthy volunteers. Specifically, the investigators plan to perform a randomised, double blind, cross-over human intervention trial using a blueberry drink to investigate the dose-dependent effects of blueberries using a range of techniques to measure endothelial function. The study will not only measure the acute effects of flavonoid ingestion on vascular reactivity but will also assess flavonoid and metabolite levels in blood and urine and other endothelial markers.

Inclusion criteria

• Male
• A signed consent form
• Age 19-40 years old
• Body mass index - 18.5-30 kg/m2

Exclusion criteria

• Blood pressure > 150/90 mmHg
• Haemoglobin (anaemia marker) < 125 g/l
• Gamma GT (liver enzymes) > 80 IU/l
• Cholesterol > 6.5 mmol/l
• Had suffered a myocardial infarction or stroke in the previous 12 months
• Suffers from any reproductive disorder
• Suffers from any blood-clotting disorder
• Suffers from any metabolic disorders (e.g. diabetes or any other endocrine or liver diseases)
• Any dietary restrictions or on a weight reducing diet
• Drinking more than 21 units per week
• On any medication affecting blood clotting
• On any vitamin supplements/fish oil capsules
• Smoking
• Vegetarians or vegans