There is increasing evidence that the postprandial state is an important contributing factor in the development of chronic diseases.  Modern day diets are characterized by high-calorie meals rich in processed, readily available carbohydrate and fat leading to exaggerated postprandial elevations in blood glucose and triglycerides, triggering a biochemical cascade resulting in oxidative stress, inflammation, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction.  These postprandial changes repeated multiple times daily, and often with limited recovery, eventually lead to atherosclerotic risk factors and coronary artery disease.  Polyphenolic compounds from various plant foods are the subject of increasing attention touted for their multiple benefits promoting health and disease risk reduction.  Polyphenolic compounds are most commonly known for their antioxidant properties; however, more recently they are recognized for their direct and indirect effects on cell signaling pathways imparting anti-inflammatory effects and improving metabolic- and endothelial- dysfunction.  Certain fruits or their derived products have been investigated for their role in maintaining system balance during the described challenges of postprandial metabolism.  Berry fruits, grapes, wine, and grape seed extract show particular promise in this area, although the science is young.  Accordingly, only few studies have extended findings to examine the effects of supplementation on traditional coronary risk factors.  The aim of this presentation will be to provide an overview of the clinical evidence of fruit-derived polyphenol action in the postprandial state, and effects of grape seed extract specifically on blood pressure regulation.  Concluding remarks will include thoughts on research needs for advancing the clinical polyphenol evidence-based science and research considerations for the food industry to ensure delivery of health opportunities to consumers.

Health benefits of fruit polyphenols:  Clinical evidence of fruit-derived polyphenol action in the postprandial state, and effects on blood pressure

244th National Meeting (2012)

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