Nutrition researchers from the University of Newcastle are calling on mature-aged Hunter Region residents to join a 12-week clinical trial aimed at promoting healthy ageing using a natural dietary supplement.
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Professor Manohar Garg, director of the university's Nutraceuticals Research Program, and postdoctoral researcher Dr Jessica Ferguson are investigating the role an antioxidant-rich dietary supplement can have in improving the quality of life in older adults and reducing the risk of developing chronic disease.
"It's not about trying to stop the ageing process, but rather enhance the quality of life of older adults so that they can age well and enjoy life to the fullest," Dr Ferguson, the lead investigator on the Ageing Well Trial, said.
Professor Garg and Dr Ferguson are currently recruiting healthy residents aged 55 to 75 for the clinical trial, which will test the efficacy of an elixir rich in antioxidants known as proanthocyanidins.
Pine bark extract is a rich source of proanthocyanidins, which are known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.
Dr Ferguson said the idea behind the 12-week clinical trial is to evaluate the health benefits of a dietary supplement containing pine bark extract combined with other natural ingredients to enhance the usefulness of proanthocyanidins in healthy older adults.
"Researchers want to examine whether some of the risk factors associated with ageing can either be lessened, improved or perhaps even be prevented," she said.
"Findings from this study could prove to be an effective strategy for optimizing the ageing process and potentially minimise age-related muscle loss and associated metabolic factors such as oxidative stress, systemic inflammation and immune system.
"Moreover, these health benefits may translate into improved physical function and promote overall well-being in older adults," Dr Ferguson added.
Eligible participants will be provided with the dietary supplement which is the be taken every day as part of their normal diet and lifestyle routine.
Results will be determined using blood parameters, body composition, blood pressure, questionnaires and a suite of basic physical function tests that explore balance, gait speed and strength of legs and upper body.
The trial is recruiting healthy men and women who have not been diagnosed chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cancer or arthritis and eligible residents aged between 55 and 75 are being urged to participate.
To inquire about eligibility email jessica.ferguson@newcastle.edu.au or telephone the Newcastle University on 4921 5636.
