Scientists from Pierre-Benit University have found that polyphenols from grapes prevent the formation of blood vessels in adipose tissue during overeating, thereby slowing the growth of adipose tissue. Research published Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry.
Polyphenols are a group of bioactive plant compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. These compounds are known to have beneficial effects in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
The study included 42 healthy men who were not overweight. For 31 days, their daily calorie intake was 50% higher than their total energy expenditure. Excess energy was provided by the addition of energy-rich foods: sodas, bread, chocolate and chips.
Participants were divided into two groups. The first was given placebo capsules, and the second was given 2 grams of grape polyphenols per day.
Participants also took samples of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue. The scientists found that the activity of 41 genes associated with the formation of blood vessels changed in the polyphenol group. The scientists confirmed that the participants who took the polyphenol had fewer vessels in the adipose tissue.
Scientists believe that polyphenols can potentially prevent the increase in adipose tissue with weight gain due to overfeeding.