Barberry administration and pro-oxidant–antioxidant balance in patients with metabolic syndrome

Abstract EN

Background : Metabolic syndrome is the constellation of several cardiometabolic risk factors, and is associated with a heightened risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).

The pro-oxidant–antioxidant balance (PAB) is a measure of factors that promote and control oxidative stress.

PAB may also be associated with the risk factors of CHD.

Objectives : This study aimed to explore the impact of supplementation with barberry, a fruit rich in antioxidants, on PAB in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Patients and Methods: A total of 106 patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome were randomized in two groups: case and control.

The case group received three capsules of barberry and the control group received three capsules of placebo for 6 weeks.

Serum PAB was measured in all patients before and after the intervention.

Results : There was no significant difference between the groups regarding their baseline PAB values (P = 0.32).

A significant decrease in PAB was observed in the barberry group (P = 0.022), whilst there was no significant change in the control group (P = 0.18).

The magnitude of change in PAB during the study was significantly greater in the case group compared to the control group (P = 0.01).

Conclusions : Barberry supplementation reduces oxidative burden in patients with metabolic syndrome.