Natural Compound in Rice and Coffee May Aid in Relaxing Heart Arteries

A recent study highlights the potential of ferulic acid, a natural compound present in foods like rice, coffee, and certain vegetables, to help prevent coronary artery spasms. These spasms, characterized by sudden narrowing of the heart's arteries, can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and other critical cardiovascular issues. Researchers from Toho University, led by Dr. Kento Yoshioka, investigated how ferulic acid impacts artery contraction using pig coronary arteries, which closely resemble human arteries.

The findings reveal that ferulic acid can significantly reduce arterial contractions triggered by chemical stimuli. The compound works via two key mechanisms: first, by blocking calcium entry into muscle cells through L-type calcium channels, which are responsible for vessel constriction; second, by inhibiting the activation of myosin light chain, a protein essential for muscle contraction, even in the absence of calcium involvement. Interestingly, ferulic acid sometimes proved more effective than diltiazem, a common medication used for relaxing blood vessels.

Given its plant-based origin and safety profile, ferulic acid holds promise as a dietary supplement or a foundation for developing new heart medications. This research offers promising avenues for natural approaches to support cardiovascular health through diet and supplements in the future.

The study was published in the Journal of Pharmacological Sciences and emphasizes the potential of natural compounds in managing heart health. As ferulic acid is found in everyday foods like rice and coffee, incorporating such foods into a balanced diet could be a simple way to support vascular relaxation and heart health.

For more details, see the original study: Kento Yoshioka et al, Inhibitory effects of ferulic acid on the contraction responses of porcine coronary arteries: a comparison with diltiazem, Journal of Pharmacological Sciences, 2025. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2025.04.006]

Source: [https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-natural-compound-rice-coffee-heart.html]