Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 16, 2026 1 hour, 37 minutes ago
Medical News: A new clinical study has revealed that specially produced chicken meat enriched with a natural compound called carnosine may significantly improve blood vessel function and reduce inflammation in people suffering from chronic coronary syndrome, a common form of heart disease. The findings suggest that a simple dietary change could help support cardiovascular health in patients already living with heart conditions.
Study finds carnosine-enriched chicken meat improves blood vessel function and reduces inflammation in
heart disease patients
Scientists Test a Functional Food Approach
Researchers from multiple Croatian institutions conducted the study to investigate whether carnosine-enriched chicken meat could improve microvascular health and reduce inflammation in patients with chronic coronary syndrome. The research team included scientists from the Department of Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergology at University Hospital Center Osijek; the Faculty of Medicine Osijek and the Scientific Centre of Excellence for Personalized Health Care at Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek; the Department of Physiology and Immunology at the same university; the Faculty of Kinesiology Osijek; the Scientific Unit for Medical Research at International Medical Center Priora in Čepin; and the Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health at Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek.
Chronic coronary syndrome occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed due to plaque buildup. This condition can restrict blood flow, increase blood pressure, and trigger inflammation, all of which contribute to long-term cardiovascular complications.
The researchers designed a randomized, double-blind clinical trial involving 38 patients diagnosed with chronic coronary syndrome. Participants were divided into two groups. One group consumed regular chicken meat, while the other consumed specially produced chicken meat enriched with higher levels of carnosine for three weeks.
Each participant received daily portions of chicken meat totaling about 500 grams per day. The enriched meat contained significantly higher levels of carnosine compared to regular chicken.
Improved Blood Vessel Function Observed
The results showed clear improvements in vascular health among participants who consumed the carnosine-enriched chicken. Measurements of microvascular function revealed stronger dilation responses in small blood vessels. This means the vessels were better able to relax and expand, allowing blood to flow more efficiently.
Researchers measured several indicators of vascular health, including post-occlusive reactive hyperemia and thermal-induced blood flow responses. Both indicators improved significantly in the group consuming the enriched meat, suggesting enhanced endothelial function.
The endothelium is the thin layer of cells lining blood vessels and plays a critical role in regulating blood flow. When endothelial function improves, blood vessels respond better to changes in circulation demands and blood pressure.
Blood Pressure and Inflammation Also Reduced
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Another important finding was a noticeable reduction in blood pressure among participants who consumed the carnosine-enriched chicken. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure all decreased during the three-week dietary intervention.
In addition to these cardiovascular improvements, the researchers observed reductions in key inflammatory markers. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6, both associated with chronic inflammation and cardiovascular disease progression, were significantly lower in the enriched meat group.
The study also detected a reduction in endoglin, a protein linked to endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation. Lower levels of this molecule may indicate healthier blood vessel function.
This Medical News report highlights how the dietary intake of functional foods containing beneficial compounds may help improve cardiovascular health alongside standard medical care.
No Safety Concerns Detected
Importantly, the study found no negative effects on cholesterol levels, liver function, kidney markers, or other blood parameters. The enriched chicken meat was well tolerated by participants, suggesting it may be a safe dietary option for patients with chronic coronary syndrome.
Study Conclusions
The researchers concluded that consuming chicken meat enriched with carnosine may provide meaningful cardiovascular benefits for patients with chronic coronary syndrome. By improving microvascular dilation, lowering blood pressure, and reducing inflammatory signaling, this functional food could potentially support better circulation and reduce stress on the cardiovascular system. Although the study involved a relatively small number of participants, the results strongly indicate that dietary strategies using naturally enriched foods may complement existing heart disease treatments and help slow disease progression.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Nutrients.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/18/6/928
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/diets-and-nutrition
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