In a nutshell
This study investigated if a diet high in walnuts improved blood pressure (BP) control in elderly patients.
They found that patients consuming walnuts had better BP control.
Some background
Diet is becoming an important factor in treating disease. High blood pressure (BP) or hypertension is a common condition. It can lead to the development of serious cardiovascular disease. This can lead to death. Managing BP is important for overall health. BP control can be achieved using a number of strategies. Anti-hypertensives (AHTs) are drugs that reduce BP. Exercise and a healthy diet are also encouraged for BP control.
Some studies have shown that consuming nuts is linked to better cardiovascular outcomes. Nuts contain a variety of nutrients. These nutrients may help reduce blood cholesterol. It is unclear if nut consumption has an effect on BP control.
Methods & findings
This study included 236 patients between the ages of 63 and 79 with high BP. Patients were assigned to a diet high in walnuts or a control diet containing no nuts. The study lasted 2 years. BP was measured using a 24-hour ambulatory device. It was also assessed at follow-up visits. BP control was determined by evaluating the range of BP measurements daily. Blood samples were also taken at the beginning and end of the study.
BP levels were similar in both groups at the beginning of the study. Patients in the walnut group had reduced office BP levels. BP levels improved in both groups after 2 years. The reductions in BP were greater in the walnut group. Daytime and 24-hour BP control were significantly better in the walnut group compared to control patients.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that walnut consumption reduces BP levels.
The fine print
Most participants in this study had mild hypertension. It is unclear if supplementing the diet with walnuts will benefit all patients with hypertension. These patients were also elderly so the results may not translate to the younger population.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding diet and hypertension, please discuss this with your physician.
Published By :
Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)
Date :
Mar 18, 2019
