Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an encapsulated fruit, vegetable and berry juice concentrate (FVB) on systemic inflammation and other risk factors for chronic disease in overweight and obese individuals.
Methods:
In this double-blind, parallel, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 56 adults (aged 40 or older with a BMI of 28 or higher) ate a diet low in fruits and vegetables (3 servings per day of fruit and vegetables combined) for the duration of the study. They were assigned to take an encapsulated fruit, vegetable and berry juice powder concentrate (Juice Plus+®; 3 capsules twice daily with meals) or placebo for 8 weeks. Blood levels of various markers of inflammation were measured at baseline and at the end of the study, as were blood lipids and body composition.
Results:
Compared to placebo, FVB lowered levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and TNF-alpha. A subgroup of 16 subjects with the highest initial levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) experienced the most dramatic results in these areas. The 3.5% reduction in total cholesterol for the full cohort analysis was calculated to be equivalent to weight loss of 4 kg and an 8-9% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), while the 3.5% decrease in LDL cholesterol was estimated to be equivalent to a 6.5 kg weight loss and a 5% reduction in CVD risk. For the elevated-CRP group, the 7.4% reduction in cholesterol was equivalent to weight loss of 9 kg and an 18-19% lower risk of CVD, while the 4% decrease in LDL cholesterol was estimated to be equivalent to an 8 kg weight loss and a 4% reduction in CVD risk.
Participants taking FVB also experienced improved body composition, as characterized by an increase in lean body mass, compared to those taking placebo. In addition, among the intervention group, the expression of several genes involved e.g. in lipogenesis or chronic diseases was improved.
Conclusion:
This trial in obese, older individuals shows that FVB concentrate supplementation has the potential to improve the metabolic profile of overweight and obese individuals by reducing blood lipid levels and systemic inflammation, as well as improving body composition.
PubMed link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28208713/