The present study examined the effect of Montmorency tart cherry juice on functional and blood-based cardio-metabolic markers in humans with Metabolic Syndrome. Participants consumed Montmorency tart cherry juice or a placebo beverage continuously for 7 days in a randomised, crossover trial. Outcome variables were measured immediately prior to supplementation and post-supplementation. Furthermore, on the 7th day of supplementation outcome variables were measured pre- and up to 5 hours post-bolus. It was hypothesised that Montmorency tart cherry juice would improve cardio-metabolic markers, particularly fasting insulin and systolic blood pressure. Furthermore, the study aimed to identify the mechanism of action for any effects of Montmorency tart cherry juice on blood pressure.

Inclusion Criteria:

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:

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