The present study examined the effect of Montmorency tart cherry juice and capsules on functional and blood-based cardio-metabolic markers in humans with Metabolic Syndrome. Participants received a single bolus of Montmorency tart cherry juice, Montmorency tart cherry capsules and placebo in a random, crossover trial. Outcome variables were measured immediately pre- and up to 5 hours post-bolus. It was hypothesised that Montmorency tart cherry juice and capsules would improve cardio-metabolic markers. Furthermore, it was hypothesised that Montmorency tart cherry capsules would be more beneficial than Montmorency tart cherry juice due to increased bioavailability of phytochemicals.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Non-smoker,

Meet 3 of 5 criteria for Metabolic Syndrome based on National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines:

1. Waist Circumference: >102cm (men), >88cm (women)
2. Fasting Serum Triglycerides: ≥1.69 mmol.L-1
3. Fasting High Density Lipoprotein: <1.03 mmol.L-1 (men), <1.29 mmol.L-1 (women)
4. Blood Pressure: ≥130 mmHg SBP or ≥85 mmHg DBP
5. Fasting Plasma Glucose: ≥6.1 mmol.L-1

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current or previous history of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, hepatic or renal disease, currently diagnosed with diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension (≥160/100 mmHg), allergy to maltodextrin or specific fruit products and those currently taking medication (such as steroids, NSAIDs, antibiotics, antihypertensive, hypoglycaemic, lipid-lowering drugs) or currently using any nutritional or antioxidant supplement. Heavy alcohol consumption (>14 units per week).