Nutritional supplements containing grape powder may be effective for people who are looking to lower their blood pressure, the findings of a new study suggest.

Researchers at the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center conducted a rat study in which animals were fed a salty diet and had their blood pressure tested over a period of 18 weeks.

In addition, some of the animals consumed grape powder, while others were given a common blood pressure medication and others. The third group was given nothing additional.

At the end of the trial, the mice that were fed grapes exhibited both lower blood pressure and heart-healthy indicators such as reduced inflammation.

In contrast, the rats that had taken the drugs had lower blood pressure but no positive heart effects and the third group showed no positive effects at all.

“The inevitable downhill sequence to hypertension and heart failure was changed by the addition of grape powder to a high-salt diet,” commented Dr. Steven Bolling of the University of Michigan.

Earlier this month, a separate study linked the consumption of collagen found in chicken legs to lower blood pressure.