In a nutshell
This study looked at the effect of nut consumption on blood pressure levels in patients with hypertension. The authors concluded that total nut consumption can lower systolic blood pressure (pressure when the heart is contracting) in hypertensive patients who do not have type 2 diabetes. Pistachios, in particular, showed the greatest effect.
Some background
Patients with hypertension need to lower their blood pressure to avoid complications such as heart attacks, strokes and heart failure. Lifestyle changes such as increased, physical activity, weight reduction and diet adjustment can help to lower blood pressure. DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diets and Mediterranean are often recommended for hypertensive patients. These diets encourage consumption of nutrient rich foods such as nuts.
Nuts are high in minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron and calcium and are low in salt. While they may be effective for lowering blood pressure, it is unknown if they will be beneficial in all cases. Some patients with hypertension also experience type 2 diabetes and diet modification for these patients needs to be planned carefully.
Methods & findings
The authors included data from 21 studies to determine the effect of nut consumption on blood pressure levels in hypertensive patients.
The results showed that overall nut consumption had no effect on systolic blood pressure (SBP) or diastolic blood pressure (DBP – pressure when the heart is between beats).
When the results were broken down into effects of different types of nuts, pistachios significantly reduced SBP and DBP. Mixed nuts also lead to a decrease in DBP.
When patients with type 2 diabetes were excluded from the results, overall nut consumption showed a significant reduction in SBP. Pistachios showed a reduction in DBP.
The bottom line
This study concluded that nut consumption can lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension if they do not have type 2 diabetes. Pistachios and mixed nuts were the most beneficial.
The fine print
This data was gathered from a number of different studies and so experiments may have varied among different groups.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician for advice on how to improve your diet for management of hypertension.
Published By :
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Date :
Mar 25, 2015
