Clinical efficacy of oligonol® supplementation on metabolism and muscle health in middle-aged and older adults: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Oligonol® is a low-molecular-weight polyphenol that has biological effects on metabolism in animals. However, little is known about its roles in muscle function and muscle quality in middle-aged and older adults.

METHODS

120 participants were enrolled for study based on 1:1 randomization. Participants in the intervention group were provided 200 mg oligonol® prepared as capsules, and 200 mg placebo (dextrin) was provided in control group.

RESULTS

Data from 103 participants (52 in the intervention group and 51 in the control group) were available for analysis. The mean age of all participants was 64.0 ± 8.2 years, and two-thirds of the participants were females. Baseline demographic characteristics, functional assessment, laboratory data and muscle parameters were similar between groups. Hip circumference decreased (p = 0.009) during the study period, and the 6-m walking speed increased (p = 0.001) in women in the intervention group. In contrast, 6-m walking speed, 6-min walking distance and handgrip strength were significantly improved in men in the intervention group, but increased total body fat percentage (p = 0.038) and decreased mid-thigh cross-muscle area (CMA) (p = 0.007) were observed in the control group. Compared to the control group, the 12-week interval change in the percentage of mid-thigh CMA was maintained in men in the intervention group but was significantly decreased in the control group (p = 0.03, 95% CI:0.002-0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Oligonol supplementation (200 mg per day) significantly improved physical performance and muscle mass in men. Further studies are needed to confirm the potential favorable effects of oligonol® supplementation.