Hello,
I am hoping someone with the relevant expertise can answer my question. I am a stage 4 kidney disease patient with probable bilateral renal artery stenosis and as a result ARB/ACEi are contraindicated in my condition. However I have come across Pycnogenol where a few studies have shown to reduce BP and promote kidney function for patients like me who suffer from metabolic syndrome. However I have also read - "Pycnogenol acts as a natural ACE inhibitor, protects cell membranes from oxidative stress, increases nitric oxide, and improves endothelial function, and decreases hs-CRP."
I wanted some feedback as to the validity of this claim. If ARB/ACEi are contraindicated for me due to that risk of acute kidney injury, should I also stay away from Pycnogenol?
If anyone has any experience with this supplement or knowledge about its action, please enlighten me.
Thank You