Fruits and vegetables, which were previously rarely prescribed, have become an important part of the treatment of high blood pressure, according to a new study. A diet high in these foods has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce cardiovascular risk and improve kidney health due to their alkalizing effects. A new study in the American Journal of Medicine presents the results of a five-year interventional randomized control trial.
Despite efforts to improve the treatment of hypertension with pharmacological strategies, hypertension-related chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular mortality are increasing. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in patients with chronic kidney disease.
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended as a first-line treatment for primary hypertension, but is often under-prescribed and under-implemented despite supporting data. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is associated with lower blood pressure, slower progression of chronic kidney disease, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.
“Our patient studies have shown that an acid-forming diet (rich in animal products) is harmful to the kidneys, while an alkaline-forming diet (rich in fruits and vegetables) is beneficial. We hypothesized that fruits and vegetables are both kidney and heart healthy because they reduce acid in the diet,” said Donald E. Wesson of the University of Texas Dell Medical School. The study involved hypertensive patients with macroalbuminuria – a marker of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular risk. Participants were divided into three groups: one group added 2-4 cups of fruits and vegetables to their daily diet, another took sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) tablets and a control group received usual medical care. Source: IANS
