Hypertension: this delicious fruit drops the tension according to scientists

Hypertension: this delicious fruit drops the tension according to scientists
This small fruit may well be a major ally against hypertension. Recent studies highlight its potential benefits on cardiovascular health.

In France, almost one in three adults is affected by high blood pressure. This pathology, both common and discreet, represents a major risk factor for cardiovascular accidents. If drug treatments are often necessary to control its effects, food also plays an essential role in prevention and regulation of blood pressure. As such, a particular fruit arouses the interest of specialists for its potential benefits.

A sweet fruit good to fight against hypertension

Small bay with a sweet taste and a characteristic bluish shade, the blueberry conceals nutritional properties that are still largely unknown. Rich in fibers, antioxidants and flavonoids, it is distinguished in particular by its potentially beneficial effects on high blood pressure.

But how does it act on tension? According to the researchers, the key lies in its high concentration in anthocyanas – natural pigments responsible for its color. These compounds would stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the body, a gas which promotes the dilation and flexibility of the blood vessels. Result: better circulation and more stable blood pressure.

Real benefit from menopausal women

According to a study published in 2015 in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dieteticsthe beneficial effects of blueberry can particularly be observed in menopausal women, which has a beginning of hypertension.

Bringing together 48 participants split into two groups, the researchers distributed blueberry or a placebo to them.

“Two groups of 24 women were set up: one received 22 grams of frozen blueberry powder daily, the other one placebo” specifies Anaïs Soize, dietician.

After eight weeks, the figures are speaking: a 4 % drop in systolic pressure, and a 6 % decrease in diastolic pressure in women who consumed active powder.

The study also noted an improvement in arterial flexibility, attributed to the increase in nitric oxide in the blood.

In what form to consume blueberry?

Anaïs Soize specifies, however, that these results cannot be generalized to all forms of blueberry.

“”It is neither a remedy against hypertension nor a generalizable effect to all forms of the fruit“She underlines. Only the frozen blueberry powder, equivalent to around 240 g of fresh fruit per day, seems to induce this effect.

“”A 200 g blueberry tray can already be closer to this threshold“She adds. The blueberry juice is also mentioned but” it is not a form that I recommend, I favor brute, frozen or broken blueberry “insists the dietician.

The practical advice of our expert

To fully benefit from the effects of blueberries, experts advise to integrate them into a balanced diet, without considering them as a miracle solution.

Because as Anaïs Soize reminds us, these effects must always be considered in the context of a healthy lifestyle. And in the event of a medical treatment in progress, it is better to consult a professional before changing your diet.