Effect of CurraNZ New Zealand Blackcurrant on Blood Pressure, Cognitive Function and Functional Performance in Older Adults

Synopsis: Taking CurraNZ New Zealand Blackcurrant extract for just a week can reduce blood pressure in older adults with hypertension.

The blackcurrant-induced decreases were similar to common medications which can reduce participants’ cardiovascular risk factors by 20%.

The study was performed in 60 and 70-year-olds with pre-hypertension or hypertension following a week’s intake of CurraNZ blackcurrant extract.

In the randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over design study, 14 physically active independent older adults were tested for blood pressure, cognitive and physical function.  

Findings showed that 600mg CurraNZ blackcurrant extract, taken for seven days:

• Lowered systolic blood pressure by a group mean value of 5mmHg
• Effect ranged from 2-22mmHg
• Lowered diastolic blood pressure by 12mmHg
• Effects ranged from 2-23mmHg

Journal of Nutrition in Gerontology and Geriatrics

https://doi.org/10.1080/21551197.2019.1707740