Fruitflow Water-Soluble Tomato Concentrate
Also known as: Fruitflow, water-soluble tomato extract (WTE), tomato concentrate, water-soluble tomato concentrate
Overview
Fruitflow is a patented, water-soluble tomato concentrate derived from Solanum lycopersicum, specifically designed as a dietary supplement to inhibit platelet aggregation. It is prepared through aqueous extraction, filtration, and concentration, yielding a powder rich in bioactive compounds such as nucleotides, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. Primarily used as a natural antiplatelet agent, Fruitflow aims to reduce platelet hyperactivity, thereby potentially lowering cardiovascular risk factors associated with thrombosis. It has received approval from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for health claims related to maintaining normal platelet function. Research indicates its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by ADP and collagen, with evidence from randomized controlled trials and mechanistic studies supporting its efficacy and favorable safety profile.
Benefits
Fruitflow primarily inhibits platelet aggregation induced by ADP and collagen, both in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating dose-dependent effects in human trials. It reduces platelet thromboxane A2 release and platelet factor 4 (PF4) levels, which are key markers of platelet activation. Studies show it can increase primary hemostatic clotting time (PFA-100 closure time), indicating reduced platelet reactivity, with effects comparable to low-dose aspirin (75 mg) but without the same bleeding risk. For instance, a crossover RCT with 47 healthy subjects found significant platelet inhibition without excessive prolongation of clotting times. While less potent than aspirin, its distinct safety profile is a notable advantage. Some preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits in lowering blood pressure and improving endothelial function, though these require further confirmation. Healthy adults experience measurable platelet inhibition, implying potential benefits for individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease due to platelet hyperactivity. The effects on platelet function are acute, occurring within hours, and are sustained with daily supplementation over at least 7 days.
How it works
Fruitflow exerts its antiplatelet effects by inhibiting key intracellular signaling pathways involved in platelet activation. Specifically, it suppresses the phosphorylation of Akt, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), phospholipase Cγ2 (PLCγ2), and p38 MAPK in collagen-activated platelets. This cascade of inhibition leads to a reduction in the generation of thromboxane B2 (TXB2) and prostacyclin metabolites, as well as decreased release of platelet granule contents like PF4. By dampening these critical pathways, Fruitflow effectively reduces platelet activation and subsequent aggregation. The bioactive compounds are water-soluble and are absorbed orally, contributing to its systemic effects, although detailed pharmacokinetic and bioavailability data are still limited.
Side effects
Fruitflow is generally considered safe, with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Common side effects are rare and not well-documented. Unlike aspirin, Fruitflow has not been associated with a significant bleeding risk, making its safety profile more favorable in this regard. While no major drug interactions have been definitively identified, caution is advised when combining Fruitflow with other antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications due to the potential for additive effects. Contraindications are not extensively defined, but individuals with known bleeding disorders or those on potent anticoagulant therapy should exercise caution or consult a healthcare professional. The safety of Fruitflow in special populations such as pregnant or lactating women and children has not been extensively studied, thus its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
The typical effective daily dosage of Fruitflow in clinical studies ranges from 65 mg to 150 mg of the concentrate, standardized for its bioactive components. A minimum effective dose appears to be around 65 mg per day, with higher doses generally producing stronger platelet inhibition. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses used in trials have consistently shown good tolerability. For sustained effects, daily dosing is recommended, as acute effects are observed within hours of ingestion. Fruitflow is commonly available in powder or capsule form, standardized for its bioactive content. It is usually taken with water, and its absorption may be influenced by the food matrix, though specific recommendations regarding food intake are not always provided.
FAQs
Is Fruitflow as effective as aspirin?
Fruitflow inhibits platelet aggregation but is less potent than low-dose aspirin. However, it offers a better safety profile with a significantly lower risk of bleeding compared to aspirin.
Can Fruitflow replace aspirin for cardiovascular disease prevention?
Currently, Fruitflow is not recommended as a replacement for established cardiovascular disease prevention therapies like aspirin. It may be an option for individuals seeking natural platelet support without aspirin’s side effects, but always consult a doctor.
How quickly does Fruitflow start to work?
Effects on platelet function can be observed within hours of ingestion. For sustained benefits, daily supplementation is recommended.
Is Fruitflow safe for long-term use?
While long-term data are limited, short-term studies have consistently shown a good safety profile for Fruitflow with no serious adverse effects reported.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8932123/ – This in vitro and mechanistic study investigated Fruitflow's effects on platelet aggregation. It found that Fruitflow dose-dependently inhibited ADP- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation and suppressed key signaling pathways (Akt/GSK3β, Syk/PLCγ2, p38 MAPK phosphorylation), providing high-quality mechanistic data on its antiplatelet action.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/ejcn2016222 – This double-blind, randomized controlled crossover trial with 47 healthy adults evaluated Fruitflow's acute and 7-day effects. It demonstrated that Fruitflow significantly inhibited platelet aggregation and thromboxane release, with effects comparable to but less potent than 75 mg aspirin, and importantly, without significant bleeding risk. The study was well-designed with appropriate controls.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.891241/full – This clinical trial, involving over 30 subjects per group, showed that 4-week supplementation with Fruitflow improved platelet function markers. Statistical significance was achieved, and no serious adverse events were reported, providing adequate clinical evidence supporting its efficacy in modulating platelet function.
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