Medical & Clinical Research

Author(s): Belcaro G*, Cesarone MR

Aim: This registry study had the aim of evaluating the effect of ECOVITIS®, a new grape seed pharma-standard supplement on the progression of early subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic, otherwise healthy women. ECOVITIS® has been administered for 6 months in 32 women at the daily dosage of 300 mg in addition to Standard Management (SM) including diet and lifestyle changes. The 30 women who received SM only were considered as a control group. Results: No side effects or drop out were observed. The tolerability was very good. Total cholesterol and triglycerides decreased significantly in the ECOVITIS® group; HDL cholesterol increased also significantly in the same group; blood pressure and oxidative stress were significantly decreased. All parameters connected with atherosclerosis progression were positively modulated in the ECOVITIS® group, in particular: IMT growth and subclinical intimal alterations. Conclusion: In this pilot registry in healthy women the use of the new PS supplement ECOVITIS® is associated with slower growth of the IMT and slower progression or regression of early arterial wall alterations; the product needs more studies to be considered a possible form of control of very early atherosclerosis and of its progression in women. The study, performed in a period of time of 6 months, should be extended to a longer period of time and to a larger, more heterogenous sample of women to become clinically more valuable as a prevention.