Which Compound Found In Red Wine Is Believed To Promote Heart Health?

Research Uncovers How Produce Transforms Heart Health

A recent clinical trial has found that increasing fruit and vegetable intake can significantly lower blood pressure and enhance heart health by reducing body acid levels. According to the study published on August 6 in the American Journal of Medicine, adding two to four cups of fruits and vegetables to the daily diet led to lower blood pressure, a decreased risk of heart disease, and improved kidney function.

Researcher Maninder Kahlon from the University of Texas at Austin Medical School emphasizes that fruits and vegetables should be a primary treatment for hypertension. This approach not only supports kidney health and reduces cardiovascular risk but also allows for lower doses of medication. The study suggests that dietary changes should be considered before starting patients on blood pressure medications.

Lead researcher Dr. Donald Wesson highlighted that dietary changes for managing chronic diseases are often overlooked due to the challenges in patient adherence. However, this study demonstrates that such dietary interventions are effective in protecting kidney and cardiovascular health. Wesson calls for increased efforts to integrate healthy eating into patient care and to make nutritious diets more accessible.

The trial was informed by earlier research indicating that diets high in animal protein increase blood acid levels, which can strain kidney function as the organ works to filter excess acids. The researchers hypothesized that fruits and vegetables could be beneficial for both kidney and heart health by reducing dietary acid levels.

In the trial, 153 patients with high blood pressure and elevated blood acid levels were divided into three groups: one increased fruit and vegetable consumption, another took daily sodium bicarbonate tablets, and the third group continued with standard care. While the sodium bicarbonate group showed improvements in kidney health, they did not experience the same benefits in blood pressure and heart health as the fruit and vegetable group. Additionally, those who consumed more fruits and vegetables required lower doses of blood pressure medication.