Review - Plant Based Polyphenol Booster Health Supplements

Plant based prebiotics are becoming a popular health supplement and we have tried one from the company Pendulum Therapeutics in San Francisco.

Two capsules are recommended to be taken daily containing pomegranate extract, grape seed extract, and green tea extract. Prices start at $25 monthly for an introductory offer and/or subscription to the supplement. Here is what one capsule may do, followed by results of taking two capsules daily.

A 375mg daily dose of pomegranate extract, particularly when rich in punicalagins, is primarily used to support cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and manage prostate health by slowing PSA doubling times. It acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, aiding in improved circulation, cholesterol reduction, and potential cartilage protection.

Pomegranate extract helps lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function, which can reverse plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis). Studies indicate that 280-375 mg of punicalagins can halt or slow the progression of prostate cancer by increasing the doubling time of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). It reduces oxidative stress, fights inflammation, and can improve exercise endurance. It may improve liver health (reducing fibrosis), aid in metabolic health, and improve erectile dysfunction by enhancing nitric oxide production.

PubMed Central indicates Pomegranate extract can interact with blood pressure medications and cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins). Always consult a healthcare professional before starting supplements, especially if you have existing conditions or are taking medications.

The company's packaging indicates however to take two capsule daily which would double the amount to 750mg. It is said that such a dose:

Helps reduce LDL cholesterol oxidation, lowers blood pressure (especially systolic), and improves blood flow. High antioxidant content helps combat chronic inflammation and protects cells from oxidative stress. Boosts blood flow and may enhance recovery, reducing fatigue. May help regulate blood sugar, improve endometrial function in PCOS patients, and support joint health.  Daily supplementation has been linked to improved skin barrier function and reduced appearance of wrinkles.

Note: While 750mg is a common dosage for studies, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before starting a new supplement, particularly for conditions like high blood pressure or to monitor for interactions with other medications

275mg of grape seed extract (GSE) provides a high dose of potent antioxidants (proanthocyanidins) used primarily to support cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood flow. It may also reduce leg swelling, aid in collagen production for skin health, and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Studies suggest GSE can help lower blood pressure, improve lipid profiles (LDL/triglycerides), and act as a blood thinner, potentially reducing heart disease risk. It is used to reduce chronic venous insufficiency, which causes edema (swelling) and poor blood flow back to the heart. High levels of proanthocyanidins (OPCs) neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing damage to blood vessels. Some research suggests it may aid in wound healing, cognitive health, and, in some studies, weight loss.

While studies vary, 275mg is a substantial dosage within common ranges (often 100-300mg) used to achieve therapeutic effects. Generally safe, but may cause headache, dizziness, or nausea. Because it acts as a blood thinner, it may interact with medication like warfarin, aspirin, or other blood pressure meds.
 

The package however says take two capsules daily which would bring the grape seed extract to 550mg. While 550mg is a potent dose, research on GSE often ranges from 100mg to 2,000mg per day. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a high-dose supplement like 550mg of grape seed extract.

225mg of green tea extract typically provides a concentrated dose of antioxidants (specifically EGCG) and moderate caffeine, designed to boost metabolism, enhance fat oxidation, increase energy/focus, and support heart/immune health. It works by protecting cells from oxidative stress and promoting fat metabolism. Promotes fat metabolism, aiding in weight loss and fat reduction, particularly when combined with exercise. Contains polyphenols (like EGCG) that fight free radicals, protect cells, and support immune health. Provides a mild energy boost due to caffeine content. May help lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

While generally safe, high doses can cause caffeine sensitivity issues like insomnia, anxiety, or nausea. In rare cases, very high concentrations have been linked to liver damage. It is important to check that the extract is standardized for polyphenol/EGCG content.

 

The package suggests two capsules daily for 450mg of green tea extract which provides a potent dose of antioxidants (polyphenols/EGCG) that support weight management by boosting metabolism, enhance cardiovascular health, improve brain function, and offer energy without the intense jitters of coffee. It is considered a moderate daily dose, helping to protect cells from damage.

Acts as a thermogenic agent, enhancing metabolism and increasing fat oxidation. Contains high levels of polyphenols and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which neutralize free radicals. Supports heart health by improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Contains L-theanine and caffeine, which can improve focus, mood, and brain function. May improve glucose metabolism.

450mg is generally considered a moderate, effective dose. While beneficial, high doses of green tea extract can lead to potential risks, including stomach upset or, in rare cases, liver issues. It is often recommended to take it with food to minimize the risk of nausea.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a recommendation.

Pendulumlife.com for more information. 

Photo courtesy Pendulum Therapeutics LLC

Company Cited For Deaths Of Two Monkeys In Immokalee

IMMOKALEE, FL. -- A company in the Immokalee area (BC US) is a subject of a just-released critical citation issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture after two long-tailed macaques died at its Florida facility when staff left them overnight in a room heated to temperatures up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a violation of federal regulations that prohibit monkeys from exposure to temperatures above 85 degrees for more than four hours. 

This statement is from PETA Senior Science Advisor for Primate Experimentation Dr. Lisa Jones-Engel:

 

Two Monkeys Die in 104 Degree Temperatures at BC US: PETA Statement

 

BC US is a staggering failure that has once again proven deadly. The same facility where a living monkey was thrown in the trash in January has now roasted two long-tailed macaques to death because staff weren't trained to turn off a heater. According to federal inspectors, temperatures in the room confining the monkeys reached 104°F for hours, far exceeding legal limits, yet the facility had no protocols requiring intervention when conditions became dangerous. Staff recorded the escalating temperatures overnight while the animals remained trapped in a deadly overheated room, underscoring a system designed to document failure rather than prevent it. BC US has repeatedly demonstrated it cannot be trusted with animal lives. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services must immediately stop monkey imports. As BC US demonstrates, the primate importation system delivers animals into facilities that cannot account for or protect them.

 

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to experiment on”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.

323 Acres Of Cattail, Willow Removal From Lake Okeechobee March 2

CLEWISTON, FL. -- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will remove 323 acres of cattail, willow and the associated organic sediments, known as muck, from two locations on Lake Okeechobee starting March 2. The projects will be completed during natural low-water conditions using mechanical scraping with excavators, dozers and dump trucks, and will run through June.

One location is a 197-acre historical slough between Pearce Canal and the Kissimmee River. This project connects the previously-completed 2011 Pearce Canal berm removal and 2007 muck removal projects. The second location is a 126-acre historical slough south of Indian Prairie Canal that connects to a 2001 muck removal project. The organic sediment material is approximately 6-12 inches deep, totaling approximately 416,000 cubic yards across both project areas. All material will be removed from the lake and transported to nearby upland disposal sites.

The projects will not affect boating, hunting or fishing within the lake. The project sites will be dry, and recreational access within the sites will not be permitted for the duration of the project due to the presence of heavy equipment.

The lake bottom will be enhanced to provide foraging, spawning and protective habitat for invertebrates, fish, waterfowl and wading bird populations. These projects will also aid in establishing desirable native aquatic plant communities and increase the diversity of beneficial emergent plant species, such as spikerush, lilies, pickerel weed, duck potato, bladderwort and smartweed. Improvements in dissolved oxygen levels, water quality and movement within the shallow marsh are expected, along with reduced nutrient levels.

Management activities, such as ecologically responsible water drawdowns, nuisance plant and organic sediment removal, and prescribed burns, help improve habitat for fish, waterfowl, wading birds and other wildlife populations, while also allowing improved lake access for anglers, boaters and hunters. This management is especially beneficial to the endangered Everglade snail kite, which uses waterbodies throughout the Kissimmee-Okeechobee-Everglades ecosystem for foraging, nesting and rearing young.

For more information about the FWC’s aquatic habitat projects, visit MyFWC.com/AquaticHabitat. Details about muck’s causes, corrective actions and the benefits of removal to fish and wildlife can be found in A Beginner's Guide to Water Management—Muck: Causes and Corrective Actions through the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Moore Haven Festival March 7 - Chalo Nitka

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- The 2026 Chalo Nitka Festival in Moore Haven, FL, takes place on March 7th at Chalo Nitka Park, featuring a 10 AM parade, alligator wrestling, live music, crafts, and a 7 PM ranch rodeo. Events run from 9 AM to 9 PM, with additional activities including a 7:30 AM pancake breakfast and a 11:30 AM Navy SEAL demo.

Chalo Nitka Festival Key Schedule for Saturday, March 7, 2026

7:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Pancake Breakfast (Elementary School Cafeteria)
10:00 AM: Chalo Nitka Festival Parade (U.S. 27)
11:00 AM: Festival Grounds Open (Crafts, Food, Music, Alligator Wrestling)
11:30 AM: Navy SEAL Museum Demo Team (1992 Williams Rd)
7:00 PM: Chalo Nitka Ranch Rodeo (Bronson Arena)
8:00 PM: Teen Dance
9:00 PM: Adult Dance (Doyle Conner Building)

Chalo Nitka Festival Admission Information: Rodeo: Adults $15, Youth (6-12) $5, Kids (5 and under) Free

Location: 198 6th St., Moore Haven, FL 33471