Effects of Four Weeks of Citrulline Supplementation on Vascular Function in Postmenopausal Women with Metabolic Syndrome during Fasted and Acute Hyperglycemia

Metabolic syndrome refers to the accumulation of cardiometabolic risk factors that is highly prevalent in postmenopausal women. The accumulation of metabolic syndrome risk factors along with aging predisposes middle-aged and older women to endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Postprandially, glucose levels are often too high and can lead to glucose-mediated endothelial dysfunction. Citrulline (CIT), the precursor to arginine and NO synthesis has been reported to be a viable option, enhancing endothelial function. Thus, the purpose of this study was to identify if CIT supplementation could enhance macro- and microvascular function after 4 weeks of CIT supplementation in the fasted state and during acute hyperglycemia. Postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome indeed benefited from CIT supplementation for 4-weeks. Macrovascular function was increased in the fasted state, and during acute hyperglycemia (30 and 60 minutes) after CIT supplementation. Similarly, microvascular function increased in the fasted state after CIT supplementation. CIT is a natural, dietary supplement that can serve to increase endothelial function in the fasted state and during acute hyperglycemia in women with metabolic syndrome.