Randomized, Double-blind, Controlled Study to Evaluate the Effect of Concord Grape Extract on Vascular Function in Healthy Men and Women

Concord grape (Vitis Labrusca) is rich in polyphenols such as anthocyanins, flavanols, procyanidins and flavonols. Current reports investigating the effects of Concord grape (CG) consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk have provided mixed results. Studies were limited by small sample size or lacked a control arm. Moreover, subjects presented with CVD or CVD risk factors and thus to our knowledge, it remains unknown as to whether the consumption of Concord Grape (poly)phenols can maintain vascular function in healthy individuals. The aim of this study is therefore to examine both acute and chronic effects of Concord Grape on cardiovascular health by investigating whether daily consumption of Concord Grape Extract (CGE) for 12 weeks can affect biomarkers of CVD risk, including endothelial function, blood pressure and blood lipids, in young healthy men and women.