Acute and 6-Month Vascular Effects of a Multi-Component Nutritional Supplement: Preliminary Findings from a Randomised Controlled Trial

Aims

To evaluate 6-month effects of a multi-ingredient nutritional powder formulation targeting complementary pathways relevant to vascular ageing on endothelial function and other vascular ageing markers in apparently healthy adults.

Methods

The Effects of a supplement to target ageing mechanisms on vascular function (STAMINA) Study was a double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. Participants received a multi-ingredient nutritional powder formulation comprising vitamins/minerals, amino acids and plant-derived bioactives, or control for 6 months. Vascular assessments were performed at baseline and after 6 months (with an acute post-dose assessment). The primary outcome was change in brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Secondary outcomes included pulse wave velocity (PWV), peripheral and central blood pressure, augmentation index, lipid profile, and estimated 10-year cardiovascular risk (SCORE2/SCORE2-OP).

Results

Sixty-one participants (baseline SCORE2/SCORE2-OP 3.6 ± 2.9%) were randomised (33 active; 28 control); 43 completed both visits (24 vs 19). Compared with control, the supplement improved endothelial function (ΔΔFMD at 6 months +2.9% [95% CI 2.1 - 3.8]) and reduced arterial stiffness (ΔΔPWV −1.18 m/s [95% CI -2.00 − -0.36]). Peripheral systolic blood pressure decreased (ΔΔSBP -6.1 mmHg [95% CI -10.9 − -4.9]). Lipids were unchanged. Estimated 10-year cardiovascular risk decreased (ΔΔSCORE2/SCORE2-OP -0.45% [95% CI -0.86 − -0.03]).

Conclusion

Daily intake of a multi-ingredient nutritional powder formulation was associated with sustained improvements in endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and systolic blood pressure, with a modest reduction in estimated 10-year cardiovascular risk primarily attributable to lower systolic blood pressure rather than lipid change.

Key findings