According to a new study daily supplementation with Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, may help boost daily muscle endurance, support muscular function and stabilize muscle loss.
64 healthy senior citizens between the ages of 70 – 78 participated in this study. The study lasted 8 weeks. All study participants were assigned an exercise plan and lifestyle change either with a Pycnogenol supplement or without a Pycnogenol supplement.
The group supplementing with the Pycnogenol experienced a 71% improvement in muscular function and endurance in daily tasks like carrying items (4-5 lbs) in comparison to the control group which saw only a 23% improvement. A 52% improvement in climbing stairs and a 38% improvement in distance walked was seen in the supplement group in comparison to a 20% improvement in stair climbing and a 17% improvement in distance walked seen by the non supplement group. A reduced presence of protein in urine, proteinuria, of 40% was also seen in the group supplementing with Pycnogenol. The presence of protein in urine when you have normal kidney function can indicate waste from muscle erosion. Finally, general fitness scores improved by more than 46% in the group supplementing with Pycnogenol compared to the control group.
Muscle loss is a normal part of the aging process. Researchers believe we lose 1 – 2% of our muscles every year after the age of 50. Strength also declines at a rate of approximately 1.5% yearly beginning at the age of 50 and increasing to 3% per year after the age of 60.
When selecting a Pycnogenol product check to see if the product has been extracted from French Maritime Pine Bark Extract and has been manufactured under strict European quality control standards without the use of harsh solvents. Like all European herbal extracts, the extraction of Pycnogenol® should be regulated to the same high standards as Over-The-Counter drugs. It should be meticulously extracted to provide the optimal level of 90% natural occurring Proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins work as free radical scavengers in addition to reducing inflammation.
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