Can a diet high in fish, eggs, nuts, fruit and vegetable diet improve blood pressure control?

This study investigated if a diet high in fish, eggs, milk, nuts, vegetables and fruit and low in salt has an impact on hypertension.

They found that this diet was associated with a reduced incidence of hypertension and improved BP control in patients with hypertension.

Hypertension or high blood pressure can be managed using a number of strategies. Some patients may be prescribed medication to lower blood pressure. Lifestyle changes such as increasing the level of exercise and eating a balanced diet can also help manage blood pressure levels.

Recent studies have linked a poor diet to an increased risk of death from cardiovascular (heart and circulatory system) disorders. There is evidence to suggest that a diet high in fruit and vegetable, eggs, fish and nuts and low in salt may be beneficial for managing blood pressure. 

This study investigated if a diet high in fish, eggs, nuts, fruits and vegetables and low in salt was associated with blood pressure (BP) levels.

This study included over 1,600 patients with hypertension and 13,660 patients without hypertension. Patients with hypertension were classified as controlled blood pressure (systolic BP less than 140 mmHg) or uncontrolled blood pressure (systolic BP greater than 140 mmHg). Patients were asked to complete questionnaires about their lifestyle, including their diet.

Patients without hypertension tended to have a diet higher in fish, eggs, milk, nuts, fruit and vegetables and lower in salt. The risk of hypertension was significantly reduced in patients that consumed fish (30% lower risk), eggs (14% lower risk), milk (16% lower risk), nuts (21% lower risk), vegetables (13% lower risk) and fruit (26% risk). Lower intake of salt was not associated with a reduced incidence of hypertension.

Better BP control was related to intake of fruit (49% more likely to have improved control), as was higher intake of eggs (54%) and milk (33%). Lower salt intake was also associated with improved BP control. Overall, this dietary pattern was associated with improved BP control (11%) but this was dependent on fruit intake.

They concluded that this diet was associated with a reduced incidence of hypertension and improved BP control in patients with hypertension.

This study was carried out in China. The results may not be reflected in other ethnicities. Self-reporting of diet is not always 100% reliable; in order to understand the effects of diet controlled trials are needed.

If you have any concerns regarding blood pressure management and diet, please discuss with your physician.