The effects of regular aerobic training and grape seed extract on the cardiovascular risk factors in obese older women

Cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis are the main cause of death worldwide which its prevalence is increasing in Iran as well. The present study examined the effect of grape seed supplement and aerobic activity on cardiovascular risk in elderly women. In a double-blind study, 24 obese women (BMI≥30), 55 to 65 years old were randomly divided into two groups of exercise with supplement (12 individuals) and exercise (12 individuals). Aerobic training program was performed 1 hour per session, 3 sessions per week during 8 weeks (with 45 to 55 percent of maximum heart rate). A daily dose of 200 mg grape seed extract was used for 8 weeks in supplement group. Blood samples were collected before and 48 hours after the last session of the study (12h fasting). Dependent t-test and independent t-test were used to compare data before and after the study and for comparison between two groups respectively. Data showed a significant difference in amount of homocysteine, hs-CRP, cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-C between pretest and posttest of supplement group, while there was no difference in any variable in the control group. According to the present study, 8 weeks aerobic exercise and consumption of grape seed extract can prevent atherosclerosis and improve public health. Also it may control and reduce atherosclerosis in obese individuals.