The Role of Food Supplementation in Microcirculation-A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Cardiovascular Research
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global health issue, with microcirculatory dysfunction often preceding clinical symptoms.
• Microcirculatory dysfunction is implicated in various forms of CVD, highlighting the need for interventions targeting this system.
• The growing food supplements market offers potential avenues for preventing and restoring microcirculation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the impact of food supplementation on microcirculation.
• To analyze the regulatory frameworks for food supplements in Europe and America.
• To assess the importance of food safety and quality in the food supplement industry.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on food bioactive compounds and microcirculation.
• Analysis of European and American legal frameworks governing food supplements.
• Identification of food supplements with documented benefits for microcirculation.

Main Results:

• A clear connection exists between diet and microcirculatory function, despite limited scientific evidence for specific supplements.
• Several plant-based food supplements demonstrate potential benefits for microcirculation, including *Ruscus aculeatus*, *Centella asiatica*, and *Ginkgo biloba*.
• Other notable supplements include *Salvia miltiorrhiza*, *Crataegus* spp., Ginseng, *Mangifera indica*, *Aesculus hippocastanum*, *Hamamelis virginiana*, and *Vitis vinifera*.

Conclusions:

• While promising, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of many food supplements for microcirculation is limited.
• Further rigorous clinical trials are essential to validate the beneficial effects of these natural compounds.
• Establishing robust clinical evidence will be crucial for the advancement of food supplements in cardiovascular health.