When I was a child, I would get excited about the thought of growing up. I couldn’t wait to become an adult—I had visions of spending my hard-earned money on video games, staying up late to watch television, and setting my own bedtime hours! It took a few years before I discovered that my thinking was flawed.
As I adapted to the new realities of growing up, I couldn’t ignore a whole other set of unexpected symptoms that came along with growing up—old age symptoms! Whether it’s aching muscles and joints, memory loss, graying hair, or a slowing metabolism, most of us have, or will eventually experience some symptoms of old age.
The good news is that modern medicine and treatments to help combat symptoms of old age have rapidly advanced since the days I was a young boy, which wasn’t that long ago.
Let’s take a look at one of these treatments, a supplement called Pycnogenol.
What Is Pycnogenol?
Pycnogenol is pine bark or a plant extract that originates from the French maritime pine tree. Pycnogenol extract has been used to treat and prevent a variety of issues, including:
- Heart disease and strokes
- Allergies
- High blood pressure
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Muscle pain and soreness
- Osteoarthritis, and even erectile dysfunction.
Pycnogenol is widely used in anti-aging products as well, as the bark is said to help maintain healthy, glowing skin; increase one’s endurance; and improve male fertility.
Pycnogenol Boosts Brain and Memory Function
Your brain memory and everyday functions are constantly being tested and need the proper nutrients in order to continue performing those functions. In a recent study that was published in the Journal of Neurosurgical Sciences, it was revealed that if you consume Pycnogenol on a daily basis, your attention span, memory, and even decision-making skills will improve.
The study was conducted at Chieti-Pescara University in Italy and it included 59 participants between the ages of 35 and 55 who were in great shape and lived healthy lifestyles. The participants were split into two groups. The first group of 30 participants was given 50 mg of Pycnogenol three times a day and was provided with a health plan. The remaining 29 participants were only given the health plan.
After 12 weeks, the participants who took the Pycnogenol saw a drastic improvement in their mood levels; their mental performance and attention span also improved, and their level of oxidative stress was significantly reduced. The results of the study complement the observations that have been focused on for years, that Pycnogenol can help improve certain aspects of an individual’s brain function.
Pycnogenol Eases Arthritis
When I think of “old age” symptoms, I immediately think of aching joints. Many elderly people who have aching joints may be worried about developing osteoarthritis—according to statistics, osteoarthritis affects one-third of Americans over the age of 65.
A three-month study was conducted to see if Pycnogenol could provide relief for osteoarthritis. The San Valentino Osteoarthrosis study consisted of 156 people who were given 100 mg of Pycnogenol per day and the results were a 56% reduction in the WOMAC score—the standard arthritis self-assessment test that evaluates pain and stiffness. Participants who were given a placebo only saw their score drop by nine percent. Furthermore, participants who were only able to walk for approximately 223 feet increased their walking distance by 66% to 650 feet after taking the Pycnogenol.
We all age, but the key to a long, vibrant life is to age gracefully. That’s why it’s important that you exercise, eat a proper diet, and look for ways to incorporate Pycnogenol into your diet. As always, consult with your doctor first before incorporating any new supplement into your diet.
See More :
The Power of Pycnogenol, Part 1 – Pycnogenol Benefits: 9 Reasons To Take Pycnogenol Supplements
Sources:
Sarto, J., “Pycnogenol®: Multi-Modal Defense Against Aging,” Life Extension web site; http://www.lifeextension.com/Magazine/2012/8/Pycnogenol/Page-03, last accessed May 27, 2015.
“Study Shows Daily Use Of Pycnogenol® Can Improve Memory, Focus, Decision-Making And Mood,” PR Newswire web site, January 21, 2015; http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/study-shows-daily-use-of-pycnogenol-can-improve-memory-focus-decision-making-and-mood-300023604.html.
Halliday, J., “Study supports Pycnogenol for better memory in elderly,” NutraIngredients.com, March 18, 2008; http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Study-supports-Pycnogenol-for-better-memory-in-elderly.