WHAT is the endothelium and why is it crucial for longevity?
The endothelium is the thin membrane that lines the inside of the heart and blood vessels. It is involved in the processes that control vascular relaxation and contraction as well as helping control blood clotting and immune function.
Endothelial dysfunction relates to the inability of your arteries to dilate fully and can lead to stroke and heart attacks.
Blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and smoking can all contribute to endothelial dysfunction. As we age, endothelial function can be more easily compromised and make us more susceptible to cardiovascular problems.
Enter polyphenols. These plant compounds help protect the lining of the blood vessels against the effects of ageing, while supporting healthy endothelium function. That's why having a diet rich in these plant compounds is so beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Polyphenols help protect plants from environmental threats and diseases and are found in fruits and vegetables. Berries are one of the richest sources of polyphenols and a great way to maintain a good intake of these longevity-promoting compounds.
They are also important because they have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antihypertensive properties and help keep the lining of the blood vessels healthy.
In a 2020 study, one week's intake of CurraNZ (using two capsules a day) significantly improved the health of the blood vessels in older people. The scientists likened the effect to turning back the clock ten years for improving subjects' blood vessel health and overcoming the natural consequences of ageing.
Unfortunately, berries aren't available all year round and not everyone likes to eat a bowl of berries every day to get their benefits (especially if they have to be defrosted first).
CurraNZ blackcurrant extract is a great dose-controlled supplement to help bolster your diet and provide a consistent antioxidant source to help maintain good endothelial function.
References:
Circulation Research https://bit.ly/2Qp3joC
PubMed: https://bit.ly/3wbazUs
Insights in Pediatric Cardiology https://bit.ly/2SZkzBW
Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity: https://bit.ly/3omZH3c
Effects of CurraNZ blackcurrant extract on arterial functions in older adults: trial. https://bit.ly/3hRHYjb
