Antihypertensive and cholesterol-lowering effects of a spread containing bioactive peptides IPP and VPP and plant sterols

The effects of a spread containing bioactive tripeptides isoleucine–proline–proline (IPP), valine–proline–proline (VPP) and plant sterols were studied in subjects with mild hypertension and elevated LDL cholesterol. Sixty-two subjects consumed 20 g/day spread containing 4.2 mg milk peptides and 2 g plant sterol esters or placebo for 10 weeks. Blood pressure was measured twice a week. Arterial stiffness was assessed by pulse wave analysis and by pulse wave velocity. Blood samples were analysed for serum lipids and high-sensitive CRP. A significant decrease was seen in systolic blood pressure (p = 0.026), but not in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.53). Total cholesterol (p = 0.003) and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.002) decreased, whereas HDL cholesterol, triacylglycerols and CRP remained unchanged. No overall effects on arterial stiffness were seen. The results suggest that a spread containing bioactive milk peptides and plant sterols has a beneficial effect on two major cardiovascular risk factors, blood pressure and plasma lipids, in hypertensive, dyslipidemic subjects. Functional foods affecting two major risk factors can be valuable tools in managing cardiovascular risk.